Why you wake up grouchy

So while waking up on the wrong side of the bed is completely natural, there are also some habits that could be making you feel even grouchier, such as

1. You haven't prepared properly for sleep

Experts agree that what you eat in the evening will not only have an impact on how you sleep, but how you feel the next day. Waking in a low mood could be diet-related and caused by low blood sugar levels.

Some people are more glycaemically sensitive than others, which means that their blood sugar levels can fluctuate more easily. Eating anything too sugary such as chocolate, biscuits, hot chocolate, alcohol or foods high in refined carbohydrates such as bread, pizza, chips and pasta may send you to bed feeling initially satisfied but with high blood sugar which then plummets in the night. "This will leave you feeling exhausted and demotivated and will massively contribute to grumpiness first thing.

However foods that include the amino acid tyramine which inhibits sleep should be avoided in the evening – these include smoked fish, cheese, and peppers. Anyone who has a fast metabolism or eats early with the kids might benefit from having a snack before they go to bed. An oatcake with hummus is ideal.

2. You're not getting enough magnesium

Of course you may find it difficult to even get to sleep if you're feeling tense or anxious.  this might point to a magnesium deficiency, an essential mineral easily depleted by stress.
"Magnesium can be found in all dark green vegetables so try to include these every day, it can be something as simple as a spinach salad."

I  recommend Epsom Salts which are packed with magnesium. "I like to throw a few handfuls into an evening bath. Magnesium is absorbed through the skin and it calms the nervous system and soothes tired muscles. It sets you up for a really good night's sleep." 

3. Your liver is overworked

In traditional Chinese medicine, the liver is the seat of anger. So if you've been drinking the night before , whether moderately or otherwise,  the liver will be under stress, impacting its ability to detoxify the body, and your sleep quality will be impaired.
"Vitamin C is vital in the liver's detoxification process and a couple of grams in powdered form dissolved in water before bed may help to reduce hangover symptoms." Note: Women taking the contraceptive Pill are not recommended to take more than 1 gram of Vitamin C.

4. You always skip brekkie

Eating breakfast soon after getting up is crucial in lifting low mood. But remember to avoid refined carbohydrate choices (croissants, muffins, cereals) which will send blood sugar peaking and dipping again (leading to low energy and low mood). Protein is key at breakfast so try scrambled eggs, muesli with yogurt, avocado and eggs, nut butter or beans on wholegrain toast.

More information:

Why do some people wake up angry?

This disruption is one of the main causes of morning depression. Your body runs on a 24-hour internal clock that causes you to feel sleepier at night and more awake and alert during the day. This natural sleep-wake cycle is known as the circadian rhythm.

How do I stop being grumpy in the morning?

• Wake a little earlier. If your mornings are rushed, the simple solution is to get up a bit earlier.
• Keep things simple.
• Have something to look forward to.
• Practice mindfulness.
• Don't dive into email or little things.
• Enjoy the spaces, and pace yourself.

How can I stop waking up with anxiety?

• Get more sleep. Brush up on your sleep hygiene.
• Start an enjoyable morning routine.
• Speaking of the snooze button, stop using it.
• Meditate.
• Use positive affirmations.
• Write whatever's on your mind.
• Stretch or practice yoga.
• Get out and move