We all know that coffee and sugar are a huge no-no when it comes to winding down, but what foods can you actually eat to make sure you don’t spend the night tossing and turning?
Greek yoghurt
Rich in potassium, calcium and magnesium, Greek yoghurt is ideal for helping digestion before bed and boosting the release of sleep chemicals in the brain. Yoghurt is also a source of tryptophan, an amino acid which promotes the release of serotonin and melatonin, which we need in order to go to sleep.
Peanut butter
Another great source of tryptophan, peanut butter also helps to release serotonin which has a calming effect on the brain. Eating peanut butter with a carbohydrate such as bread also helps to release insulin which transports tryptophan across the blood-brain barrier. Peanut butter also helps to prevent late-night cravings and builds muscle as you sleep.
Hummus
Chickpea-rich hummus is packed with folates and B vitamins which the body needs in order to produce melatonin, another sleep-inducing hormone. Eat with whole-grain pitas or toast around 3 hours before bed to allow your body time to digest the food and feel the calming effects on the brain.
Cherries
Cherries are perfect for boosting melatonin levels and relaxing the mind and body before sleep. If they are out of season, a glass of unsweetened cherry juice in the morning and evening is a great way to reduce insomnia and promote a healthy sleep cycle.
Oats
A hugely beneficial complex carbohydrate, oats are one of the most ideal pre-bedtime snacks. Not only do they digest slowly, meaning that you won’t wake up later with cravings or hunger pangs, they also stimulate the production of serotonin and melatonin.
Sweet potatoes
These potassium-rich potatoes are perfect for snacking on before bed as they are packed with complex carbohydrates which allow for slow digestion and promote a healthy sleep cycle.
If you would like to find out more about how REM-Fit Sleep Monitoringtechnology or Zeeq Smart Pillows can help you to get a better night’s rest, please get in touch with our experienced, knowledgeable staff by calling 020 8731 0020 or email us via sales@rem-fit.co.uk.
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