LifestyleSleepA UK-registered pharmacist has warned people against eating one food before bed, as it could have the opposite effect and keep you awake at night15:34, 20 Jun 2026If you're finding it difficult to drift off at night, there are numerous approaches available to help you unwind and achieve a more restful night's sleep. Whether you browse the supermarket shelves or type a query into your search engine, you'll find dozens of recommendations on how to improve your sleep.‌From consuming specific foods and drinks to limiting screen time on phones, TVs and other devices before bedtime, there is no shortage of guidance out there for those struggling to nod off.‌However, one medical professional is urging people to steer clear of one widely-suggested remedy, cautioning that it could actually produce the opposite effect.‌UK-registered pharmacist Amir Singh posted a video on TikTok rating various techniques that are supposedly beneficial for sleep, and viewers were left stunned by one particular warning he issued.What food should you never eat before bed to help with sleep?When questioned on the matter, Dr Singh revealed he would not recommend eating a banana before heading to bed.Despite many people believing the fruit aids sleep due to its magnesium and potassium content, it actually has the reverse effect, according to the pharmacist.‌He said: "It's like really high in sugar actually, so it's probably going to keep you up."Another item he didn't recommend using was having milk before bed, especially for people who are lactose intolerant. He said: " Five, if you're lactose intolerant, it's an awful idea. We all had it like as kids before bed, so you might feel a bit nostalgic and it gets you to sleep."What does the pharmacist recommend to help sleep better?Instead of bananas or milk, Dr Singh recommends two items for people seeking some assistance falling asleep each night.Article continues belowWhen asked to rate the items out of ten, he said: "Taking antihistamines to feel sleepy. Ten, definitely help, you shouldn't do it often."It's fine if the antihistamines marketed specifically for sleep to do as a one-off if you're struggling, you shouldn't be doing it regularly."When asked about eye masks, he added: "Ten, it's definitely going to help at least a little bit. It's not going to cause any harm and it'll get you into that complete darkness that you need to sleep."Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌HealthSleep