7 Surprising Foods That Can Help You Sleep Better
Research shows that the quality of our sleep often hinges upon our dietary choices. In simpler terms, what you eat can have a profound impact on how well you sleep. Thus, this article aims to enlighten you about seven unexpected foods that can potentially enhance your sleep quality.
Incorporating these foods into your regular diet can pave the way for a more restful night. But remember, everyone’s body responds differently, and these foods may not be the magic cure for everyone.
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Foods That Can Help You Sleep Better
1. Kiwis
Although kiwis may not be the first food that comes to mind for better sleep, experts recommend incorporating this fruit into your diet.
That’s because kiwis are a rich source of serotonin, a brain chemical that assists in regulating your sleep cycle.
2. Almonds
The value of almonds for sleep is often overlooked. Yet, almonds, particularly rich in magnesium, can promote both sleep and muscle relaxation.
In a person who consumes almonds regularly, improved sleep quality can be observed.
3. Chamomile Tea
Even more significant, chamomile tea, consistently revered as a sleep enhancer, holds its reputation for a reason.
Some studies suggest that chamomile tea increases levels of glycine, a chemical that relaxes your nerves and muscles as well as acts like a mild sedative.
Further, scientists believe that chamomile tea might also enhance your sleep quality because it contains apigenin, an antioxidant that produces a calming effect and may induce sleep.
In most cases, drinking chamomile tea consistently before bed can aid in more restful sleep.
4. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, herring, and tuna, are excellent sources of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids.
These nutrients are known to enhance sleep by helping regulate serotonin.
In particular, experts say that the combination of these two nutrients in fish is particularly effective.
5. Tart Cherries
Tart cherries, especially for people who struggle with insomnia, are a natural source of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.
You may find that adding tart cherries or their juice to your daily diet can help you fall asleep faster.
6. Warm Milk
Some studies suggest that warm milk, an age-old remedy for sleeplessness, may still hold up today.
That’s because milk contains both tryptophan and calcium, both of which can aid in the production of melatonin.
Thus, drinking warm milk before bed might just be the key to unlocking better sleep.
7. White Rice
In most cases, white rice is typically associated with a high glycemic index, which can promote better sleep.
Experts believe this may be because high-GI foods increase the production of tryptophan, an amino acid that acts as a precursor to sleep-inducing serotonin.
Conclusion
Many experts believe that simple dietary changes can make a significant difference in the quality of your sleep. On the other hand, while these seven surprising foods can help you sleep better, it’s crucial to remember that a balanced diet and a consistent sleep schedule are equally important.
Not to mention, individual nutritional needs can vary, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider if you’re having persistent sleep troubles.
By exploring these unexpected sleep-enhancing foods, you may discover a more restful night’s sleep is just a forkful away.
