Tiredness and dieting

I have found that if I am tired - my willpower goes out the window! Here are a few tips I have found helpful in getting a good night's sleep:

1. drink plenty of fluid (water/herbal tea) during the day - avoid high energy drinks late at night
2. go to bed the same time every night. See how many hours of sleep you need to feel refreshed
3. have your bedroom at a decent temperature if it's too hot or too cold this can give you a disturbed sleep
4. don't eat too late - there's nothing worse than going to bed with indigestion
5. don't eat foods which contain MSG (Mono-sodium glutamate) or other additives especially before bedtime
6. if something is bothering you - try and let it go - don't take it to bed with you (unless it's your spouse, then you have no choice in the matter ;) )
7. depression can make you sleepless - don't be ashamed to go to your GP and ask for anti-depressants
8. if you have a baby and you're breastfeeding, but the little one isn't satisfied at night time with the milk you produce:

• check you are drinking enough during the day - your body has to get the fluids from somewhere
• I know breast is best, but if you are feeling really blue and miserable due to lack of sleep because of a hungry baby - supplement the night time feed with formula - it's better to have a contented baby and mum than feeling drained all the time 
• avoid energy drinks and high sugar foods