May 27, 2020 2 min read

You’re probably aware that food plays a big role in improving our energy levels, but did you know that some foods can help you get a better night's rest? We don’t often focus on meals and snacks that help us get some quality shut-eye, as we’re typically focused on consuming things to keep alert levels high. But on the other side of caffeine and energy foods, here are some items to add to your grocery list for restful nights. 


Fruits

Some fruits contain significant amounts of melatonin. If you don’t know what melatonin is - it is a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle by “reminding” your brain when to relax, wind down, and get some sleep. A list of fruits that have noticeable amounts of melatonin include cherries, bananas, pineapple, oranges, and kiwis. So if you’re feeling abnormally awake by the time your normal bedtime hits, try having two of the listed fruits to aid your sleep.


Warm cup of tea

Having a cup of something warm (without caffeine) plays more of a psychological role than scientific. Yes, having say chamomile or lavender tea generally heightens sleepiness. However, if you simply want to drink a glass of warm milk, this is more so a relaxing, maybe even nostalgic sleep routine. If having a warm drink was a night time ritual when you were a kid, doing this as an adult may help you get to sleep.


Fish and poultry

Foods like chicken and turkey have decent amounts of tryptophan - a hormone that aids in the making of serotonin, a relaxing hormone, and melatonin. Whereas, fish - especially salmon, tuna, and halibut have significant amounts of vitamin B6. This vitamin is another source that makes melatonin. By eating fish, chicken, or turkey for dinner, the melatonin encourages a subtle head start to having a good sleep.


Lettuce

Lettuce contains a phytonutrient called lactucarium which is known to improve sleep, relieve pain, and protect your cells that reduce inflammation. Another way to consume lettuce easily before bed is to brew lettuce tea. Add some hot water to some leaves of romaine lettuce and add honey for sweetness. 


Carbs

Yes, there are some carbohydrates that can help you get to bed. Complex carbs to be exact. These are foods that have fiber integrated or mixed in with them, and they encourage higher levels of melatonin and serotonin. On the contrary, you’ll want to avoid simple carbohydrates that are found in sugary and processed foods. Basically, avoid the cookies and white breads and go for popcorn, oatmeal, or whole-wheat crackers as a late night snack, especially if you’re having trouble getting to sleep. 


If you ask us, this is not a bad list when it comes to eating food for better sleep. You can get pretty creative with how you choose to eat these sleep inducing foods. It’s a win-win when you get to eat or drink foods that offer proper nutrition and sleep!


References

  1. https://www.sleepfoundation.org/articles/food-and-drink-promote-good-nights-sleep
  2. https://www.sleepassociation.org/about-sleep/top-10-foods-help-sleep/
  3. https://www.thespruce.com/foods-that-help-you-sleep-better-350758
  4. https://www.sleepline.com/carbohydrates/



Also in Blog

socks on someone staying warm by fire inside
5 Ways to Stay Zen this Holiday Season for Better Sleep

December 03, 2024 3 min read

Because stress is the main cause of sleep disturbances, many of us see our sleep suffer as a result.
Read More
wild turkey standing on grass
Can Turkeys Snore (Or Get Sleep Apnea)?

November 15, 2024 2 min read

Any wild animal with a soft palate can snore under the right circumstances....
Read More
Happy guy sleeping in bed
Can You Snooze Your Way to Happiness?

November 14, 2024 3 min read

Sleep loss has a detrimental effect on mood has also been confirmed by years of research...
Read More