A nutritious diet and quality sleep are both essential for optimal health. But when it comes to getting a good night’s rest, certain foods may be better than others. We take a closer look at which foods and nutrients may promote better sleep.
1. Honey
In raw honey has a lot of fructose and glucose. While glucose provides a quick burst of energy in the form of blood sugar, fructose takes a lengthy time to digest. These two substances work together to keep your glucose levels stable while you sleep.
2. Bananas
Bananas are high in magnesium and potassium, both of which assist to calm overworked muscles. They also contain tryptophan, which converts to serotonin and melatonin, two important relaxing hormones in the brain, making this fruit nature’s sedative.
3. Poultry food
Tryptophan, a sleep-inducing amino acid, is found in all poultry foods (Eggs, chicken, turkey etc). Tryptophan is an amino acid that the brain requires to generate the chemicals serotonin and melatonin, which are both calming and sleep-inducing.
4. Yoghurt
Calcium is required for the digestion of the sleep-inducing chemicals tryptophan and melatonin, which are found in yoghurt. You’ll get a nice night’s doze if you top it with nuts and/or bananas!
5. Nuts
Unsaturated fats found in Pistachios, Almonds, Walnuts, Groundnuts, Cashews, and other nuts will not only help your heart health but also your serotonin levels. Magnesium, a mineral that works as a natural sedative, is found in the majority of these nuts. Magnesium shortage can cause sleep problems even if it isn’t severe.
4. Oatmeal
This is high in melatonin, a sleep-inducing hormone, as well as vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It may be your go-to breakfast, but if you need a good night’s sleep, make a bowl of it and combine it with milk and honey for a soothing bedtime snack.
