If you’re looking to slim down, taking care of your diet and exercise routine is essential. However, what many people don’t know is that getting enough rest is also crucial for losing weight.

That’s because when you don’t get enough sleep, your body produces more cortisol, a hormone that increases appetite and slows down your metabolism. Therefore, if you want to slim down, making sure you’re getting enough rest is as important as what you eat and how you move.

To help you improve your sleep and support your weight loss goals, here are five bedtime drinks that can help you slim down your waistline:.

1. Warm Milk

For generations, warm milk has been a go-to nighttime drink to promote relaxation and restful sleep. But milk also contains tryptophan, an amino acid that helps your body produce serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps you feel calm and relaxed.

Additionally, studies have shown that calcium, a mineral abundant in milk, can help your body burn fat while you sleep. Therefore, drinking a warm glass of milk before bed may help you relax, sleep better, and burn more fat.

2. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea is another classic bedtime drink that can help you relax and unwind. Chamomile contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to specific receptors in your brain that may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

Studies have also shown that chamomile tea can improve sleep quality and reduce inflammation, which is particularly beneficial if you’re trying to lose weight, as chronic inflammation can impair your body’s ability to burn fat. Lastly, chamomile tea is calorie-free, making it an excellent option for anyone looking to cut back on calories.

3. Tart Cherry Juice

Tart cherry juice is a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating your sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is particularly important for nighttime weight loss, as it helps your body burn fat more efficiently during the night.

Additionally, tart cherries are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce muscle damage and inflammation caused by exercise, allowing you to recover faster and perform better during your workouts. To reap the benefits of tart cherry juice, drink a small glass before bed, ideally two to three hours before you go to sleep.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has gained popularity in recent years for its many health benefits, including weight loss, improved digestion, and better blood sugar control.

But what many people don’t know is that apple cider vinegar can also improve sleep quality and regulate appetite hormones. Acetic acid, the main active compound in apple cider vinegar, has been shown to lower blood sugar and insulin levels, two factors that affect your appetite and hunger levels.

Additionally, acetic acid can also improve fat metabolism, making it easier for your body to burn fat while you sleep. To use apple cider vinegar as a bedtime drink, mix one or two tablespoons with a cup of warm water and drink it 30 minutes before bed.

5. Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant drink that can help reduce inflammation throughout your body, boost your immune system, and improve digestion.

Ginger contains gingerol, a compound that has been shown to reduce nausea and improve gut motility, which can be beneficial if you’re struggling with digestive issues or bloating. Additionally, ginger can also boost your metabolism and help your body burn more calories, making it easier to lose weight. To make ginger tea, steep a few ginger slices in boiling water for five to ten minutes and drink it before bed.

If you’re struggling to lose weight, improving your sleep quality and routine may be the missing piece of the puzzle.

By incorporating one or more of these bedtime drinks into your routine, you could improve your sleep, boost your metabolism, and accelerate your weight loss goals.