Do you have trouble falling asleep at night? If so, you're not alone. Millions of people around the world wake up repeatedly in the middle of the night or stare up at the ceiling struggling to even fall asleep!
Fortunately, there are some foods and snacks that can help you fall asleep quickly and easily. In this blog post, we will discuss the top five foods that support sleep and will prevent you from ever having to count sheep again.
Tart Cherries
Tart cherries have long been associated with a good night's sleep. Thanks to their high concentration of melatonin, tart cherries can help to regulate the body's sleep-wake cycle.
The best way to include them in your night routine is to eat a handful of fresh cherries or drink tart cherry juice at least 1-2 hours before bedtime.
Alternatively, a more delicious and beneficial option is the The Night Cookie. This all natural cookie that not only contains tart cherries, but also 6 sleep-inducing ingredients including magnesium, zinc and ashwagandha that make going to sleep (and staying asleep) a lot easier.
Bananas
Bananas are a natural source of magnesium, which helps to relax the body and induce sleep. They also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that the body converts into serotonin. Serotonin is a feel good hormone that helps to promote calmness and relaxation.
Bananas are also a good source of potassium and vitamin B6 which support the production of serotonin and ease muscle tension.
Eating a banana before bedtime can help you to unwind, fall asleep quicker and improve your overall sleep quality.
Almonds
Who would have thought that such a small, unassuming nut could have such an impact on our sleep? Although they may be humble, almonds are packed with nutrients that support restorative sleep.
Almonds are an abundant source of magnesium and tryptophan, both of which as we know now improve sleep quality. The combination of these nutrients helps to relax the muscles and calm the mind, promoting better sleep.
Yoghurt
That's right, yoghurt is not just a delicious snack - it can also improve your sleep quality. Here's how.
Yoghurt contains probiotics that can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Important for storing new memories into long-term memories.
Reducing inflammation in the body is another way yogurt improves sleep quality. People with high levels of inflammation have reduced amounts of REM sleep, a stage of sleep that occurs about 90 minutes after falling asleep.
REM sleep is essential for many bodily processes including memory consolidation and brain development. So, eating yogurt not only supports high quality rest but also helps you to wake up the next day feeling refreshed and energised.
Just be sure to choose yoghurt with live and active cultures and avoid yogurt with added sugar to prevent blood sugar spikes. For the best results, eat yoghurt about 30 minutes before bedtime.
Chamomile Tea & TEN PM's Hot Chocolate
Okay yes, strictly speaking these aren't foods but we couldn't miss out these 'sleep drinks'!
Chamomile tea contains compounds that promote relaxation, such as the amino acid, tryptophan. Chamomile tea also has a mild sedative effect, while having a warm drink can help to regulate your body temperature, making it easier to fall asleep.
Additionally, hot chocolate can be a natural source of magnesium, which helps to relax the body and induce sleep. Unfortunately most hot chocolates on the market are filled with stimulants, additives and other nasties so if you're feeling like a delicious cup of hot chocolate made only from natural ingredients then the The Night Drink is the perfect choice.
Not only is it low in sugar and calories, this hot chocolate powder is also vegan and includes 7 natural sleep-inducing ingredients!
Sweet dreams are made of these.
If you’re looking to get a great night’s sleep, try munching (or drinking) on one of these bedtime snacks before hitting the hay.
Is there a better way to end your day than cookies and hot chocolate?! The Night Cookie and The Night Drink contain 12 sleep-inducing ingredients, are low in sugar and calories and calm your mind and body to help you fall asleep faster.
