A healthy digestive system is the cornerstone of overall well-being, and what you consume before bed can significantly influence your gut health. While heavy, late-night meals can disrupt digestion and sleep, certain drinks can do the opposite—soothe your stomach, support digestion, and even help you sleep better. Here are 8 bedtime drinks that may help you wake up feeling lighter and more refreshed.
Ginger has natural anti-inflammatory and carminative properties, which make it excellent for settling the stomach. A warm cup of ginger tea before bed can:
Stimulate saliva and bile production
Relieve bloating and gas
Reduce nausea or discomfort
How to make: Steep fresh ginger slices in hot water for 10 minutes. Add honey or lemon for taste.
Chamomile is widely known for its calming effects, but it also acts as a mild digestive relaxant. It can help:
Reduce stomach inflammation
Alleviate indigestion and cramps
Promote restful sleep
Tip: Opt for organic chamomile tea without added flavors or caffeine.
A simple but effective drink, lemon water helps flush out toxins and balances stomach acids. It can:
Aid liver detoxification
Encourage smoother bowel movements
Boost hydration before sleep
How to make: Squeeze half a lemon into a cup of warm water.
Peppermint is another herb that can ease digestion by relaxing the muscles of the GI tract. It’s especially helpful for:
Reducing bloating and gas
Easing symptoms of IBS
Calming the digestive process
Note: Avoid if you have acid reflux, as it may worsen symptoms.
Fennel seeds are known to prevent indigestion and flatulence. A tea made from them can:
Relax digestive muscles
Relieve constipation
Freshen your breath naturally
How to make: Boil a teaspoon of fennel seeds in water for 5–7 minutes, then strain.
Cinnamon is a warming spice that promotes digestion and balances blood sugar. Combined with warm milk (dairy or plant-based), it:
Encourages digestive enzyme production
Reduces intestinal gas
Helps you relax and unwind
Tip: Use a pinch of ground cinnamon and mix it into warm milk with a drop of honey.
Apple cider vinegar (ACV) aids digestion by increasing stomach acidity and supporting healthy gut flora. Before bed, it may:
Prevent acid reflux
Help with nutrient absorption
Reduce bloating
How to make: Mix 1 tsp of raw ACV in a glass of warm water. Add honey for a better taste.