Getting enough quality sleep is essential for our overall health and wellbeing. But did you know that what you eat can impact the quality of your sleep? Here are my five top nutrition tips for better sleep:
Avoid caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime. Both can disrupt your sleep cycle and prevent you from getting quality rest. Ever feel like you were asleep but didn't get any rest after a couple of glasses of wine? That's exactly what happens - you do not enter the normal deep sleep cycle and hence you also don't get the full benefits associated with sleep such as cell renewal and rest.
Eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods. Foods that are high in fibre, protein, and healthy fats can help regulate your blood sugar levels and promote better sleep. Are you waking up in the night needing to eat? Get this checked out by your doctor as your blood sugar may be getting too low and this may be a sign of undiagnosed diabetes.
Incorporate foods that contain melatonin. Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that helps regulate sleep-wake cycles. Foods like cherries, oats, and walnuts are good sources.
Don't go to bed hungry or overly full. Eating a large meal right before bedtime can cause discomfort and make it harder to fall asleep. On the other hand, going to bed hungry can also disrupt your sleep.
Consider taking a magnesium supplement. Magnesium is a mineral that plays a role in regulating sleep and relaxation. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to see if a magnesium supplement is right for you.
By incorporating these nutrition tips into your daily routine, you may find that you sleep better and wake up feeling more rested and energised.
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