Before you go getting all excited, I am not recommending some type of alcoholic beverage here. Although a drink of something stronger might initially help put you to sleep, alcohol actually interferes with your sleep cycles and reduces the quality of your sleep. And we all know that high quality sleep is vital for so many health reasons. So the beverage of choice before bed is something warm, soothing, relaxing, and calming.
Lately I have been making myself this delicious nightcap. It is a beautiful color, something reminiscent of sunshine and summer flowers. It is slightly filling, containing about a block of protein, carbs, and fats. This drink therefore makes a perfect snack if you are on the Zone diet. If you are lactose intolerant or just wish to avoid dairy products, feel free to substitute your favorite milk replacement.
The chamomile and the milk both provide calming and relaxing components. The turmeric provides powerful anti-inflammatory components as well as a sunshine-y color and subtle flavor. The stevia has also been shown to provide anti-inflammatory action, but some people find it has a bitter aftertaste. I haven't found this to be the case with Truvia, but I only use a single packet. The nutmeg is a delicious final touch.
Ingredients:
About a half - one full cup whole milk (or almond, coconut, etc.)
About a half - one full cup filtered water
1 chamomile teabag
1 pinch turmeric
1 teaspoon powdered stevia, optional (Truvia, or substitute honey or other sweetener if desired)
Light grating of fresh nutmeg
Combine milk and water in large, microwave-safe mug. Heat for about 2 minutes on high. Add teabag, turmeric, and stevia. Steep for at least 5 minutes. Enjoy!
Makes one single serving. I like a large mug before bed, but you can adjust the size to suit your needs.
Lately I have been making myself this delicious nightcap. It is a beautiful color, something reminiscent of sunshine and summer flowers. It is slightly filling, containing about a block of protein, carbs, and fats. This drink therefore makes a perfect snack if you are on the Zone diet. If you are lactose intolerant or just wish to avoid dairy products, feel free to substitute your favorite milk replacement.
The chamomile and the milk both provide calming and relaxing components. The turmeric provides powerful anti-inflammatory components as well as a sunshine-y color and subtle flavor. The stevia has also been shown to provide anti-inflammatory action, but some people find it has a bitter aftertaste. I haven't found this to be the case with Truvia, but I only use a single packet. The nutmeg is a delicious final touch.
Ingredients:
About a half - one full cup whole milk (or almond, coconut, etc.)
About a half - one full cup filtered water
1 chamomile teabag
1 pinch turmeric
1 teaspoon powdered stevia, optional (Truvia, or substitute honey or other sweetener if desired)
Light grating of fresh nutmeg
Combine milk and water in large, microwave-safe mug. Heat for about 2 minutes on high. Add teabag, turmeric, and stevia. Steep for at least 5 minutes. Enjoy!
Makes one single serving. I like a large mug before bed, but you can adjust the size to suit your needs.
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