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Date: January 18, 2024
In the realm of TikTok trends, the “sleepy girl mocktail” has emerged as a viral sensation, promising a good night’s sleep with a simple concoction of magnesium powder, tart cherry juice, and a splash of seltzer. However, while hordes of TikTok users claim to have experienced the “best sleeps” of their lives with this beverage, sleep experts remain skeptical about its slumber-inducing powers.
“The sleepy girl mocktail—the idea of having this instead of alcohol—[may mean] you’re going to sleep better,” says Michelle Drerup, PsyD, a psychologist at the Sleep Disorders Center at Cleveland Clinic. Still, experts caution that more research is needed on both magnesium and tart cherry juice to fully understand their impact on sleep.
Sleepy Girl Mocktail Ingredients, Explained:
- Magnesium: Typically in powder form, its role in promoting better sleep is inconclusive. Some research suggests it may improve sleep by relaxing muscles, increasing melatonin, and lowering cortisol.
- Tart Cherry Juice: Rich in melatonin, it theoretically promotes better sleep. However, studies have shown mixed results, with varying opinions on its effectiveness for sleep improvement.
- Seltzer: Appears to be included for flavor or an added zing, with no direct sleep-inducing properties.
While tart cherry juice contains melatonin, an essential sleep hormone, it may not provide the recommended dosage for optimal sleep aid. Dr. Drerup notes that the sleepy girl mocktail is generally safe to try, but its effectiveness as a magic sleep solution is doubtful.
Proven Ways to Improve Sleep Quality:
- Diet Considerations: Eating a large, heavy meal close to bedtime can impact sleep, especially for those with acid reflux. Finishing dinner a few hours before bedtime is advisable.
- Snacking: A small snack before bed, comprising carbohydrates and a bit of protein, can promote insulin secretion and contribute to a healthy circadian pattern.
- Nutrients: Foods rich in calcium and vitamins A, C, D, E, and K, such as nuts, seeds, yogurt, milk, almonds, fruits, and veggies, can aid in sleep improvement.
- Avoid Greasy Foods: High-fat meals before bedtime can lead to difficulty falling and staying asleep due to slower digestion.
- Caffeine and Screen Time: Limiting caffeine and screen time, especially close to bedtime, can significantly impact sleep quality.
Experts recommend consulting a healthcare provider if sleep troubles persist. A variety of health conditions can affect sleep, and seeking professional advice can help identify the root cause and explore potential solutions, including medications if necessary. Whether it’s the sleepy girl mocktail or other sleep hacks, individual responses can vary, and expert guidance ensures a tailored approach to better sleep.
