Tag: Sleep hormones

According to a 2018 study, poor sleep is a major predictor of junk food cravings and nighttime snacking. So, why do I crave ice cream late at night? This common question has roots in a complex mix of biological signals, emotional responses, and daily habits that influence your body's nightly desires.

Cheesy bliss is a real biochemical phenomenon; research suggests that casomorphins, compounds derived from milk protein, can attach to the same brain receptors as certain drugs, triggering a dopamine rush that reinforces the craving. This addictive potential is just one of several intriguing reasons you might find yourself rummaging for cheddar after sundown.

Studies have shown that vitamin B6 is crucial for producing neurotransmitters like serotonin and melatonin, which are essential for regulating your sleep-wake cycle. However, the relationship between B6 and sleep isn't straightforward; some people find it relaxing while others experience sleep disturbances.

An estimated one-third of people who begin a ketogenic or other low-carb diet experience initial sleep disturbances, a phenomenon known as 'keto insomnia'. Understanding why a low-carb diet causes insomnia is crucial for managing these side effects and improving sleep quality during metabolic transition.

According to a 2017 study in the journal *Nutrients*, melatonin has been detected in a variety of cereals, with wheat having a relatively high concentration compared to other grains. This discovery reveals that wheat does have melatonin and plays a multifaceted role in the human diet, extending beyond basic nutrition to potentially influencing sleep and circadian rhythms.