A spoonful of peanut butter before bed: Top US doctor explains why this could be beneficial

Creamy, nutty, and delicious - peanut butter is a staple in every household and is loved by many. A popular spread, peanut butter is enjoyed for its delicious taste and unique texture. Well, its also nutritious. If not allergic, peanut butter is a good source of protein and healthy fat. Peanut butter is commonly enjoyed as a spread on bread or paired with apple slices. But how about having a spoonful of peanut butter just before bed? Well, it may sound a bit odd, but the internet is obsessed with this ritual. What happens when you eat a spoonful of peanut butter before bed? It certainly delights your taste buds, and does much more. Let’s take a closer look.

Nutritional value of peanut butter

Made from grinding peanuts, peanut butter is a nutritious treat.

A 3.5 oz (100 g) portion of peanut butter contains:

• Vitamin E: 60% of the daily value (DV)
• Vitamin B3 (niacin): 84% of the DV
• Vitamin B6: 29% of the DV
• Folate: 18% of the DV
• Magnesium: 37% of the DV
• Copper: 56% of the DV
• Manganese: 65% of the DV

It also has biotin, selenium, vitamin B5, iron, potassium, and zinc.

Benefits of eating peanut butter

• A good source of plant-based protein, if not allergic.
• Low in carbs.
• Contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
• Rich in antioxidants, which reduce inflammation.Curbs cravings by keeping you fuller for longer.
• Rich in essential nutrients like vitamin E, magnesium, and niacin.

What happens when you eat a spoonful of peanut butter before bed

Eating peanut butter before bed will help you sleep better. Dr. Kunal Sood, MD, a double board-certified doctor, practising in Germantown, Maryland, noted that this habit has a calming effect on the brain. “Why would peanut butter before bed help you fall asleep? There are a couple of reasons. Peanut butter contains tryptophan, which is a precursor to serotonin, which can have a calming effect on your brain,” the doctor said, in a video shared on Instagram.

Peanut butter will also provide a good night’s sleep. But how? “Peanut butter also contains magnesium, which has been shown to relax you and improve your sleep quality,” he said. A yummy treat for a good night's sleep. How nice is that!

The doctor also added that eating peanut butter before bed may prevent waking up in between the night for no reason. “It is also high in healthy fats, which can help stabilize your blood sugar. It does this by slowing the absorption of carbohydrates. The reason you wake up at night sometimes is because of the sudden spike and crash of your blood sugar,” Dr. Sood added.


Dr. Sood also added that while eating peanut butter before bed may have many benefits, it's certainly not for everyone.
Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Friendship Day wishes, messages and quotes !