The Perfect Foods for Quality Sleep
By Donna Stark
I am just getting back from a whirlwind overseas trip that included several different countries, many long airport lines, and not enough hours in the days. To say I’m tired is simply a gross under-exaggeration. I am more than tired. And all of those Zzz’s that appear over our heads when we sleep? Well, mine seem to still be on vacation. I think most people can relate, and I think it’s time we all get the rest we need. There are plenty of tricks for getting better sleep, but one option that’s not really a “trick” is eating the right kinds of food.
Food Tips for Better Sleep
Food plays such an important role in our health that it’s no surprise it also impacts the quality of sleep we get as well. Certain foods can help the body produce the right amount of melatonin, so try to integrate some of them into your diet. Let’s take a look at a few.
- Reds are best – Put the cabernets and merlots aside because the reds I am talking about are tart cherry juice and raspberries, both of which are loaded with natural melatonin. Consuming these about an hour or two before bed may help you sleep better.
- A couple of nuts – No, I’m not talking about your extended family members. Instead, the nuts I am referring to are almonds and walnuts. Full of melatonin, these are a perfect snack to have in the evening, or you can even enjoy a tablespoon or two of almond butter in their place! It’s a great bite to eat before bedtime rolls around.
- Sweet fruit – In addition to containing melatonin, bananas, pineapple, and oranges also boost the body’s production of it. So serve them up in a delicious tropical fruit salad after dinner and prepare yourself for a night of great rest.
- From the sea – Create a fantastic seafood dinner … tuna, halibut, salmon, lobster, and shrimp are good sources of Vitamin B6 and tryptophan, which are instrumental in the production of melatonin.
- Chickpeas – Pull your comfiest pajamas out of your dresser, grab some crackers and hummus, and get ready for some shut-eye! Chickpeas are a good source of tryptophan, folate, and Vitamin B6, which have all been shown to regulate sleep patterns and encourage melatonin production.
You Won’t Lose if You Snooze
We have all grown up hearing the saying, “you snooze, you lose” and unfortunately, those words have truly done an injustice for those who hold them to be true. The reality is, if you don’t snooze, you actually end up losing more. Your health may begin to decline, your moods can become unstable, and your relationships may start to suffer. To be your best, you need your Zzz’s, so start by eating smarter and learn how to maximize the quality of your food so that you can tap into the power of your sleep.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in La Verne, Calif.