A nightcap is a drink taken shortly before bedtime. For example, a small alcoholic beverage or glass of warm milk can supposedly promote a good night's sleep. [1] [2]
A nightcap is a drink taken shortly before bedtime. For example, a small alcoholic beverage or glass of warm milk can supposedly promote a good night's sleep. [1] [2]
In folk medicine consuming a nightcap is for the purpose of inducing sleep. Alcohol is not recommended by doctors as a sleep aid because it interferes with sleep quality. [3] Some popular sleep medicines include 10% alcohol, [4] although sleep-inducing effects of alcohol wears off after a few nights of consecutive use. [5] [6]
Nightcaps can be neat or mixed. They should not be served chilled or on the rocks, because a nightcap is supposed to induce a feeling of warmth. [7] The hot toddy is usually considered the original nightcap. [8] Other traditional nightcaps include brown liquor like brandy or bourbon, [7] and cream-based liqueurs such as Irish cream. Wine, especially fortified, [9] can also function as a nightcap. [10] Since some nightcaps are made of amaro, a digestif, they are believed to also make settling into bed easier by promoting digestion. [8]
A nightcap was originally alcoholic, since it warms drinkers and helps them sleep, just like the garment of the same name. [11] Warm milk has also been used as a nightcap for inducing sleep, [12] however its effectiveness is disputed. [13]
Dentists and medical professionals advise against drinking milk before bed, as it contributes to tooth decay — caused by the prolonged exposure to lactose during one's sleep. Unless teeth are brushed after the consumption of a nightcap, the only recommended beverage before bed is plain water, and in small quantities to avoid the urge to urinate during the night. [14] [15] [16]
In 1930, Ovaltine was advertised as "the world's best 'night-cap' to ensure sound, natural sleep", [11] although such claims lack scientific basis.
