Salmon
Salmon is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids which have been shown to improve sleep quality and duration. Omega-3s help regulate your circadian rhythms, which are the 24-hour cycles that tell your body when it’s time to wake up and go to sleep. It can be challenging to cook salmon at night so another good option is wild salmon jerky. Just make sure not to eat too much or too close to bedtime because high amounts of protein may keep you awake for longer than desired.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are low in fat and loaded with complex carbohydrates and fiber which keep you satisfied throughout the night. They contain tryptophan as well as potassium and Vitamin B6 which help promote better sleep by increasing production of GABA within the brain. Even though sweet potatoes have a sweet flavor, they are a healthy snack to eat before bedtime.
Tart Cherries
Tart cherries are a good source of melatonin, the natural hormone that helps regulate sleep. In addition to being a source of melatonin, tart cherries also contain anthocyanins which are antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming tart cherries before bedtime can help you get a good night’s sleep and reduce inflammation throughout the body helping you feel better when you wake up!
Lettuce
Lettuce is a good source of magnesium and potassium which help the body relax. Magnesium also helps improve sleep quality and duration. In addition to magnesium, Vitamin B6 and a chemical called 5-hydroxytryptophan (5HTP) which also helps to cause sleepiness. To assist you relax and get a good night’s sleep, eat some romaine lettuce before going to bed.
Honey
Honey is a natural sweetener that not only tastes good but also has health benefits. One thing is it contains tryptophan and it’s low in sugar which makes it a good choice for a bedtime snack. Tryptophan helps the body convert into serotonin, which has a calming effect on the body. It also contains antioxidants that help reduce inflammation. Consuming honey before bedtime can help you get a good night’s sleep and improve your overall health!
Chocolate
Last but not least, chocolate is a food that many people enjoy eating before bedtime. Chocolate contains magnesium and theobromine which are substances that help the body relax. Always aim to eat chocolate that is at least 70% cocoa or more because it contains less sugar and more healthy substances that are good for you! Try having some chocolate milk before bedtime to help your body relax and get a better night’s sleep.
Conclusion
There are many different types of foods that you can eat before bedtime to help you sleep better. All of these foods contain substances that help the body relax and promote better sleep. If you are struggling with insomnia or poor sleep quality, try incorporating some of these foods into your diet and see if you notice a difference!
