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Last Updated: Oct 23, 2019
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Food For Good Night Sleep

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Dt. Kanchan PatwardhanDietitian/Nutritionist • 30 Years Exp.MSc. Foods & Nutrition, BSc. Dietitics
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Food for Good Night Sleep

Eat strategically at night: Certain foods contain compounds that help the body relax and unwind so you will slip into a deep, restorative sleep faster.

Bananas

In addition to tryptophan, bananas also contain potassium and magnesium, two more natural muscle relaxants. Eat one slathered with peanut butter for a punch of belly-filling protein.

Cherries

Fresh and dried cherries are one of the few natural food sources of melatonin, which helps your body regulate sleep cycles and supports healthy cellular replication and restful sleep.

Milk

Have a glass an hour before bed, suggests Shelby Harris, PsyD, director of the Behavioral Sleep Medicine Program at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City. Milk helps the brain use tryptophan and promotes the production of melatonin, which shortens the amount of time that it takes you to fall asleep. The calcium in milk also acts as a natural muscle relaxant.

Honey

Studies show that honey contains a form of fructose that releases slowly into the blood stream,

Almonds

These heart-healthy nuts contain the magical duo of tryptophan and magnesium, which relax your muscles and make you tired,

Oatmeal

If you are making a late-night run to Starbucks, opt for oatmeal over coffee. Oats are a good source of high-quality carbohydrates and have natural sedative properties.

Pumpkin Seeds

Don't just roast these at Halloween: Pumpkin seeds are naturally rich in magnesium, calms your body and mind for a great night of sleep. Having enough magnesium in your systems decreases the chances of muscle tremors, cramps and anxiety. Toss a handful of seeds into soups, smoothies or salads.