How does what I eat affect my capacity to fall asleep (and stay asleep)?

When one ingests food or drink, the body has to digest that food quickly before it rots in the gut. So, rather than being in a calm, relaxed state conducive to sleep, one's body is busy churning and moving the process along. In addition to that, certain foods contain ingredients that stimulate the body, presenting additional obstacles towards sleep.

Foods affect people different ways. Things containing caffeine and alcohol tend to be the major ones. Caffeine can prevent some from falling asleep and staying asleep. Alcohol tends to make people sleepy, but as it is metabolized it can then interrupt sleep. Food allergies and intolerances can have a negative impact on sleep. Being hungry, or having too full of a stomach can also affect sleep.

Normally, it's not a good idea to eat right before bed. Maybe you could try and research what foods affect sleep patterns and go from there.

If I eat a lot right before I sleep, I will feel very bloated and have difficulty in falling asleep. However, it is not possible for me to fall asleep with an empty stomach. Therefore, I will eat light snacks before sleeping if I am hungry. There is exceptions though. When I have to study late, I will eat a lot but can still sleep well. Maybe because I am tired.

For sure! Ask the British institute of research... their scientists always research useless crap and have a ridiculous answer for prettymuch everything

Eating a heavy meal right before bed such as pasta will disrupt sleep, as your brain is sending lots of blood to the digestive system to aid the digestion process. Also, eating things such as chocolate, coffee or energy drinks before bed can also affect sleep in a bad way. To have a restful sleep, finish eating food at least an hour before bed. If you want, drink a cup of chamomile or lavendar tea. If you suffer from nausea, peppermint is also good. Basically, avoid eating anything that stimulates the body at least 2 or more hours before bedtime.

Eating makes me sleepy so it helps in order to get a good night's sleep but feeling too full doesn't

Eating too much of anything can really affect the quality and quantity of your sleep, especially the ones that are high in sugar.