Sleeping with a cold can be exhausting, but one expert has shared a simple smoothie recipe that could help you get the rest you need while fighting your symptoms
Brits tormented by the symptoms of winter bugs are being told that a simple smoothie could be the answer to their sleepless nights. As the cold and flu season takes its toll, leaving many with relentless blocked noses and scratchy throats, a sleep expert has come forward with a “miracle” blend that promises to soothe you into slumber.
Ashley Hainsworth from Bed Kingdom has concocted what could be the ultimate bedtime beverage to help you snooze while fighting off those pesky symptoms. The smoothie, which can be whipped up in no time, includes:
- Pineapple
- Banana
- Spinach
- Turmeric
- Almond milk
While you can tweak the amounts to suit your own taste and texture preferences, Ashley has shed light on why each of these pantry staples is crucial for securing that much-needed rest. Kicking off with pineapple, it’s the enzyme bromelain that’s the hero here, working wonders to cut through mucus and congestion and soothe inflamed throats.
Bananas bring the knockout punch for sleep thanks to their potassium content, which helps muscles unwind. Meanwhile, the vitamin B in spinach, and tryptophan found in almond milk, join forces to boost melatonin production, the hormone that keeps our sleep cycles in check. Finally turmeric’s medicinal prowess is legendary, offering anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits that can help clear up nasal blockages.
If the smoothie isn’t quite hitting the spot, Ashley has some other tips to help you get a good night’s sleep without compromising your beauty rest. He suggests taking a hot bath or shower before bed to help clear your sinuses and lungs, and adding a few drops of essential oils like tea tree or eucalyptus can enhance this effect and soothe a sore throat.
Sleeping on your side can prevent mucus build-up in your lungs and sinuses, and having a humidifier close to your bed can keep your airways moist, soothing irritated tissues that cause pain and nasal congestion.
