It’s Spring N Crowd! The sun is out, the days are getting longer, and we’re… sleeping?
Sleep optimization is key to avoiding negative effects on the body such as weakened immunity, mood disorders, and chronic disease. Let’s debunk some viral sleep hacks that may (or may not) be proven to get you those eight hours! We will discuss the science behind the sleepy girl mocktail trend, as well as the effectiveness of using common supplements such as melatonin and magnesium.
The Sleepy Girl Mocktail
Many people who consistently struggle with falling asleep claim this recipe changed their life. On TikTok, Ashley Flores shares her tips for making the perfect “sleepy girl” mocktail. The recipe typically consists of cherry juice, a base of prebiotic soda or flavored water, and magnesium powder!
So, does the “sleepy girl” mocktail work?
Research shows that tart cherry juice does in fact aid in sleep and recovery. According to The Cleveland Clinic, the juice has two key components: melatonin and tryptophan. Melatonin produces a natural hormone that regulates your sleep-wake cycle, while tryptophan is an amino acid that aids in the production of melatonin. What a coincidence that both are found in cherry juice! Overall, this is a safe and natural way to fight insomnia and get your sleep back on it’s natural path.
Taking Melatonin Religiously
It is not uncommon for melatonin gummies to have a permanent home on most people’s bedside tables. New evidence has been found that taking the supplement over a long period of time has multiple negative side effects. According to research done by University of California, Davis, headaches, day-time drowsiness, vivid dreams, and nightmares are not uncommon. Higher doses may produce even more effects such as vomiting, dizziness, and irritability!
UC Davis also emphasizes that while melatonin is sold as an over the counter supplement, it is not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. In 2023, the Journal of the American Medical Association found 22 out of 25 melatonin products had inaccurate labeling. Meaning that 88% of the actual products did not match the ingredients described on the packaging.
Per these stats, sticking to the sleepy girl mocktail might be our better alternative, N Crowd!
Moreover, on TikTok, Dr. Daniel Barrett also does not condone the use of melatonin. Instead he suggests these alternatives: magnesium, a cold room, and blue light glasses if you must be on a screen before bed. Of course, for those on varying health journeys, be sure to check with a professional before starting a new routine.
Try out these night time tips, N Crowd, and you will hopefully be set up for success!
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