Having trouble sleeping?

Health website WebMD suggested some caution with your drink intake in a recent article.

• Caffeine: Most people know that they might court insomnia by drinking coffee in the evening.

It is true that the caffeine in your cuppa could perk you up. However, even a moderate intake can cause sleep disturbances.

So do not forget to avoid less obvious caffeine sources like chocolate, cola and tea.

It is best to cut all caffeine from your diet after noon each day if you want a good night's sleep.

• Alcohol: It may help you fall asleep faster. However, sleep may be less restful with frequent awakenings, headaches, night sweats and nightmares.

If you drink alcohol in the evening, balance each drink with a glass of water to dilute the alcohol's effects.

• Cut fluids by 8pm: Staying hydrated throughout the day is great for your body but do stop your fluid intake well before bedtime.

You are bound to have interrupted sleep if you are constantly getting up to go to the bathroom.

This article was first published in Mind Your Body, The Straits Times.