Scientists from West Virginia University have found that the amount of carbohydrates in food can affect your bedtime. The researchers will present their work at the American Physiology Summit.
Throughout the study, the scientists evaluated the sleep and diet of 23 professional football players. Athletes wore a smart ring that tracked their sleep for 31 consecutive nights during the competition season. During the last three days of the study, the women also recorded their dietary intake.
The study found that participants who consumed more carbohydrates and vitamins B12 and C tended to go to bed earlier and wake up earlier than those who consumed less of these nutrients. According to researchers, these nutrients can increase the synthesis of vital sleep-regulating hormones, including serotonin and melatonin.
The analysis found no association between food intake and sleep duration. Researchers also found that despite athletes taking the recommended amount of vitamins, about half are still deficient in vitamins A and K.
The researchers cautioned that their findings should not be interpreted as cause and effect. The results only show how various aspects of health can contribute to the performance and recovery of athletes.