Clearing enough time in your schedule to sleep is just half the battle. For those of us who aren’t able to fall asleep the moment our head hits the pillow, there are additional steps you can take to ensure a good night’s sleep – Such as eating the right foods. The following twelve foods may help your body prepare to sleep and combat insomnia!
HERBAL TEA: Cut the caffeine early, people, and switch to an herbal option. Even consuming caffeine as far as 8 hours in advance of bedtime can affect your sleep. Instead, go for an herbal option with chamomile or passionfruit.
WARM MILK: Don’t you love it when old wives tales are true? Turns out calcium enhances your brain’s ability to convert tryptophan to serotonin. If you eat dairy, anything from yogurt to cheese will work. If you’re plant based, look for fortified calcium in your products!
ALMONDS: Everyone’s favorite snack food is also great for sleep! Almonds contain tryptophan and magnesium – Both ingredients are great for sleep!
BANANAS: Science says we should eat bananas in the morning and at night! Bananas are full of B6, which can promote sleep and relaxation.
SALMON: Another great source of B6! Have a piece for dinner, sleep like a baby!
CHICKPEAS: Chickpeas also contain tryptophan – So go ahead and have a second helping of hummus!
CHERRY JUICE: Tart cherry juice is an excellent melatonin booster. If you drink a couple of classes throughout the day, you’re far more likely to hit the hay ready to sleep
KALE: Did you know that greens are also a great source of calcium? So adding green, leafy veggies such as kale and spinach will not only help you sleep, but will provide many other vitamins and nutrients to your diet.
HONEY: Ok, get this – Honey is known to diminish your brain’s alertness. Just one tablespoon could help you go to sleep!
WALNUTS: Walnuts are another great source of tryptophan. Additionally, University of Texas researchers found that walnuts contain their own source of melatonin, which may help you fall asleep faster.
