Nightcap (drink)
Drink taken shortly before bedtime
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
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]
Alcoholic nightcaps and sleep
In folk medicine consuming a nightcap is for the purpose of inducing sleep [citation needed]. 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 with ice, 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]
Non-alcoholic
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.
