Oat milk, a plant-based alternative to dairy milk, has surged in popularity over recent years due to its environmental benefits, nutritional profile, and versatility. Beyond its use in coffee shops and kitchens, there is a growing interest in how oat milk might influence sleep.
It has gained attention not only for its nutritional benefits but also for its potential calming effects. This article explores how oat milk can serve as a natural sedative and stress-reliever, providing a gentle and effective way to promote relaxation and restful sleep.
What is Oat Milk?
MYOM Oat Milk is revolutionising the dairy industry by prioritising both sustainability and nutrition. Enriched with vital nutrients like calcium, iodine, vitamin B12, and D3, MYOM is designed to benefit both your health and the environment.
The MYOM Original Oat Drink Blend is easy to prepare, just mix with water, shake, and enjoy a versatile and delicious oat milk. Additionally, it doesn’t require refrigeration until it's ready to drink, making it an ideal choice for those with busy, on-the-go lifestyles.
The Calming Components of Oat Milk
Oat milk is rich in nutrients that can help soothe the body and mind, making it an excellent choice for those seeking natural stress relief and improved sleep quality.-
Complex Carbohydrates: Oat milk contains complex carbohydrates that help maintain steady blood sugar levels. This stability can prevent energy spikes and crashes that contribute to stress and anxiety, promoting a more relaxed state.
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Beta-Glucan: This soluble fibre found in oats helps support heart health and digestion, but it also plays a role in regulating blood sugar levels. Steady blood sugar levels are crucial for maintaining calmness and reducing nighttime awakenings.
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Vitamins and Minerals: Oat milk is often fortified with vitamins and minerals such as calcium, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. Calcium and vitamin D are known to support the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle, while B vitamins are essential for maintaining healthy brain function and reducing stress.
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Low Fat and Protein: The balanced content of fat and protein in oat milk can prevent feelings of heaviness that sometimes come with consuming richer foods before bed, aiding in a more restful sleep.
How Oat Milk Can Influence Sleep
- Regulation of Blood Sugar Levels: Oat milk’s complex carbohydrates and beta-glucan help stabilise blood sugar levels, which is important for maintaining steady energy throughout the day and reducing nighttime awakenings caused by blood sugar dips.
- Source of Tryptophan: While oats themselves are a source of tryptophan, an amino acid that the body uses to produce serotonin and melatonin, oat milk can contain relatively lower amounts due to processing. However, consuming oat milk with other tryptophan-rich ingredients like seeds, nuts and dark green vegetables like spinach can support the production of sleep-regulating hormones.
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Digestive Health: A healthy digestive system is crucial for good sleep. The soluble fibre in oat milk supports gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria. A well-functioning digestive system can help prevent discomfort and disruptions during sleep.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential for sleep, as dehydration can lead to dry mouth and nasal passages, causing sleep disturbances. Oat milk can contribute to daily fluid intake, supporting overall hydration.
Practical Tips for Using Oat Milk to Enhance Sleep
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Evening Snack: Consider having a small glass of oat milk in the evening as a part of a healthy snack. Pair it with foods rich in tryptophan, such as bananas, nuts, or a small piece of turkey, to potentially enhance its sleep-promoting effects.
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Warm Oat Milk: Some people find that drinking warm milk before bed helps them relax. Try warming oat milk in a saucepan. Pour in 250ml MYOM Oat drink and heat to a medium heat until warmed through. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg, both of which have calming properties.
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Smoothies: Blend oat milk with sleep-friendly ingredients like bananas, cherries (which contain natural melatonin), and a handful of spinach for a nutritious evening smoothie that supports sleep.
- Oat Milk and Cereal: Enjoying oat milk with a bowl of whole-grain cereal or oats can provide a balanced source of carbohydrates and fibre, supporting stable blood sugar levels through the night.
Oat milk is a nutritious, plant-based drink that offers several benefits that can indirectly support better sleep. While more research is needed to establish a direct link between oat milk and sleep quality, its components, such as complex carbohydrates, beta-glucan, and essential vitamins, contribute to overall health and may enhance sleep when included as part of a balanced diet. By understanding how to incorporate oat milk into your nightly routine, you can potentially improve your sleep quality and overall well-being.
At MYOM, we're committed to creating a unique oat milk experience that seamlessly merges taste, convenience, and sustainability. Our focus is on minimising environmental footprint while maximising nutritional benefits, so every sip not only delights your taste buds but also contributes to a healthier planet.
As dietary needs can differ between individuals, it is best to talk to your nutritionist, dietitian or doctor to discuss the best plant-based milk alternative for your individual needs.
NOTE: The content of this blog, such as text, graphics and images (“content”) is a guide for informational purposes only and written to the best of our capability for accuracy and completeness in September 2023. MYOM Ltd assumes no responsibility or liability for any errors or omissions in the content.
