Health Q&A: restless sleep - Telegraph Your problem is a very common one and usually relates to a dip in blood sugar levels, commonly referred to as hypoglycaemia. The cause of this is eating an evening meal too early, eating a high-glycaemic-index meal (one where sugars are released quickly) or skipping meals. Consider a low-glycaemic-index diet with a good quantity of protein in each meal, or having a protein snack before bed. Firstly, it is worth seeing your GP or a herbalist as these may be symptoms arising from hormonal changes. If so, there are some very effective natural herbs that may help: shatavari, a member of the asparagus family, helps to balance changes at this time in life. As you are hot, aloe-vera juice can help to cool you down. It's also worth avoiding 'heating" food and drink - such as chillies, alcohol and caffeine - late at night THE GP Millie Saha My first thought would be hormone testing to exclude the menopause. Hot flushes can herald the change, even in your forties. I would also screen for an overactive thyroid, diabetes, and infections including TB. Your GP will also ask you about symptoms of low mood and anxiety, which can cause early morning waking and insomnia. You may not feel stressed, but it is important to include your emotional wellbeing as a contributing factor to a good night's sleep Always consult a medical practitioner if your symptoms persist. Send your health questions, for publication only, to stellahealth@telegraph.co.uk