Sweet Dreams: My Favorite Mocktail for Better Sleep

I am always looking for ways to improve my sleep naturally. Without fail, tart cherry juice always helps!  Tart cherry juice contains tryptophan, serotonin, melatonin, and antioxidants, which helps me fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. It’s also very refreshing on a warm summer night!

Recipe:

• 4 oz tart cherry juice

• 1 tsp (or less) honey

• Squeeze of lemon

• Ice

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/4 tsp magnesium powder (for added relaxation) I love Moon Juice’s Magnesi-Om

• 2 oz sparkling water (for a bubbly twist)

• 2 oz Olipop (prebiotic soda, for gut health and a flavor boost)

Mix base ingredients and stir in any optional add-ins of your choice. If using Olipop, choose a complementary flavor like Cherry Vanilla or Tropical Punch. Enjoy 1-2 hours before bedtime.

Benefits:

1. Melatonin boost: Tart cherries are a natural source of melatonin, helping regulate your sleep-wake cycle.

2. Reduced inflammation: The antioxidants in tart cherries may ease muscle soreness and joint pain.

3. Better sleep quality: Studies suggest tart cherry juice can increase sleep duration and efficiency.

4. Enhanced relaxation: Optional magnesium may help relax muscles and calm the nervous system.

5. Gut health support: Olipop contains prebiotics that can support digestive health, which may indirectly improve sleep quality.