Sleep --Is it a problem for you?

Trouble Sleeping? Look at Your Diet

If you have ever eaten a big meal late in the evening and had trouble falling or staying asleep, consider these explanations, courtesy of DrWeil.

It is more difficult to digest food when lying down. Our digestive tracts work best when we are upright – sitting, standing or even walking. When you lie down after a meal, gravity can disrupt proper digestion; this can lead to acid reflux, or heartburn, which can hinder sleep.
Digesting food requires the body to expend energy. This can interfere with the relaxed metabolic state required for sleep.

Your best bet: eat large meals earlier in the day, when the body will best use the energy the food provides, and restrict any late-evening eating to small, healthful snacks.