Why Late Night Mishloach Manot (sugar) Can Hurt Your Sleep.

Purim is now over, and with it comes lots of mishloach manot to enjoy. Eating the hamantaschen, cookies, candy, and all the wonderful foods left over from Purim is part of the celebration and part of the joy of life. But when you eat them can matter, especially if it’s close to bedtime.

Several studies show that eating sugar too close to bedtime can lead to:

• Trouble falling asleep

• More nighttime awakenings

• Feeling tired in the morning, even after a full night of sleep

  
  

Some research suggests that eating very close to bedtime may be associated with poorer sleep and insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep), though the effects may depend on the type and amount of food.

So how long before bed should you avoid sugar?

Most sleep experts recommend finishing sugary foods about 2–3 hours before bedtime. Instead of avoiding sugar altogether, try focusing on enjoying your Purim treats earlier in the day or in the afternoon, and do your best to limit sweets late at night.

Remember, it’s the small habits that make a big difference in how we feel.

Research references:

According to a study from Columbia University published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, sugary foods can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar followed by a drop. These fluctuations may trigger stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which can interfere with sleep.

A study published in Sleep Advances (Oxford Academic) found that eating within three hours of bedtime was associated with more nighttime awakenings and poorer sleep efficiency.

Disclaimer: This article is for general educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Individuals with diabetes, blood sugar disorders, or other medical conditions should consult their physician or qualified healthcare provider before making changes to their diet or eating habits.