When it comes to nighttime snacks, honey might not be the first thing you reach for. However, a small amount of wildflower or Tupelo honey, whether on its own, stirred into a cup of herbal tea, or drizzled over a slice of toast, can offer a host of health benefits when enjoyed right before bed. Here's a closer look at why you should open a jar tonight.

Why You Should Have Honey Before Going to Bed 

1. Relieve Coughing 

A spoonful of honey to help alleviate coughing if you have a cold or upper respiratory infection isn't just an old wives' tale. Honey may be even more effective than over-the-counter cough suppressants for reducing coughing at night. It can soothe irritation in the throat and airways and has microbial properties that help the body fight infection. 

2. Improve Sleep 

Honey contains the amino acid tryptophan, which is also found in turkey and often blamed for sleepiness following Thanksgiving dinner. Tryptophan itself won't make you sleepy, but it metabolizes and supports the production of serotonin and melatonin. 

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of well-being and relaxation, while melatonin helps regulate sleep cycles. A teaspoon of honey before bed can increase levels of these brain chemicals, making it easier for you to fall asleep and stay asleep. 

3. Control Blood Sugar 

For people with diabetes, insulin resistance, or other conditions that affect blood sugar, honey is a preferred sweetener because it doesn't lead to the spikes that regular white sugar can. Honey is also associated with better cholesterol management, lowering levels of triglycerides and LDL, known as bad cholesterol, while raising HDL, which is the good kind of cholesterol. This is a particular concern for diabetics who are at increased risk for heart disease. 

However, a teaspoon of honey before bed may also help maintain more stable blood sugar levels at night when they tend to fluctuate. These fluctuations can disrupt sleep, making it more difficult to manage blood sugar and weight. 

Before adding honey to your diet for health benefits, talk to your doctor and choose natural, high-quality honey for the greatest benefits. You can find healthy wildflower and Tupelo honey varieties at Register Family Farm in Freeport, FL. This family-operated and veteran-owned 1,200-colony bee farm produces a wide range of honey and honey-based products, including candles, soaps, lip balms, and lotions. They ship nationwide, so visit their website to place an order or call (850) 392-7404 to learn more.