Catching More Zzzz’s Is As Easy As 1,2,3…
It’s no secret that this is the time of year to get in shape and lose weight. What many people don’t realize is that getting quality sleep each night goes hand in hand with a healthy lifestyle. The good news is that you don’t have to go to sleep starving to stay in shape. In fact, a light snack before bed might actually aid in getting quality sleep, which in turn improves overall health and energy levels.
There are also certain foods you can incorporate into your overall diet to improve the quality of your sleep. The health benefits of a successful slumber are countless: sleep helps improve mood, keeps your brain sharp and your immune system strong, your figure slim, and your skin looking youthful. It also lowers your risk of high blood pressure and heart disease. That bedtime snack doesn’t sound so bad now, does it?!
So, if you are having trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, consider adding some of the following three foods to your diet. Chances are you will be snoozing away in no time.
- Vitamin B6 Boosters
Fish and bananas give Vitamin B6 levels a boost, which in turn produces more melatonin (a sleep-inducing hormone). Chickpeas, fortified cereals, bok choy, and summer squash are some other good options to improve Vitamin B6 levels.
- Calcium Rich Foods
Some studies have shown that a calcium-deficient diet causes difficulty falling asleep. Calcium-rich foods like yogurt and milk may help overcome challenges dozing off. Can’t do dairy? Try some dark leafy kale. It goes great in a salad or added to a smoothie.
- Whole Grains
If you can doze right off and then find you can’t stay asleep, try adding more whole grains to your diet, specifically at dinner. Magnesium-rich foods like bulgur, wheat, and other whole grains can make it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
There you have it. You can be healthy without being hungry. Fix yourself some whole grain toast or a tasty kale smoothie and snuggle in for the sleep of a lifetime.
Related Articles:
- 9 Foods to Avoid if You Don’t Want to Be Counting Sheep (valleysleepcenter.com)
- 8 Great Foods for a Great Night’s Sleep (valleysleepcenter.com)
- Six good-for-you sleep inducing foods (valleysleepcenter.com)
