It’s no secret that getting quality sleep is vital for our health and well-being.
Recent scientific studies reveal how getting quality sleep can significantly boost your health, immunity, energy levels and so much more.
But did you know that the foods you eat can play a significant role in how well you sleep? Certain nutrients in food can either promote restful sleep or disrupt your ability to fall and stay asleep.
Here’s a look at the key foods that support healthy sleep patterns:
- Magnesium: The right form of magnesium helps regulate hormonal balance, and it’s also a mineral known to promote relaxation. Foods rich in magnesium, such as leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and bananas, can help calm your nervous system and prepare your body for sleep.
- Tryptophan-Rich Foods: Tryptophan is an amino acid found in foods like eggs, and dairy. It is a precursor to serotonin, which is then converted into melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep. Including tryptophan-rich foods in your evening meals can help promote better sleep.
- Complex Carbs: Foods like whole grains, sweet potatoes, and legumes provide complex carbohydrates, which help the body produce serotonin. Including these carbs in your evening meal may make it easier to fall asleep.
- Melatonin-Rich Foods: Some foods contain small amounts of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Cherries, especially tart cherries, have a natural source of melatonin that can help promote sleep.
* Herbal Teas: Certain herbal teas, such as chamomile, valerian root, and lavender, have been traditionally used for their calming and sleep-inducing properties. A cup of warm herbal tea before bed can be an excellent way to wind down and prepare for a restful night’s sleep.
On the other hand, it’s wise to steer clear of heavy meals, caffeine, and alcohol before bed, as they can interfere with your sleep and make it more difficult to fall and stay asleep.
Incorporating sleep-supporting foods into your daily routine and being mindful of your eating habits before bedtime can help you enjoy deeper, more restorative sleep.