10 Foods For Better Sleep

Not getting proper or enough sleep is a problem which most of us face. You may be dead tired after work and your eyes feel totally weighed down. But as soon as you lie on the bed, you are not able to sleep. Lack of sleep can affect your body adversely. Drowsiness, lack of concentration, fatigue etc. are some of the ill effects of lack of sleep. A good night's sleep is absolutely necessary to keep your brain sharp, strengthening your immune system and keeping you healthy.

There are a number of reasons for which you may not be sleeping well. Stress, bad eating habits, sleep time, unhealthy lifestyle, bad habits like excessive smoking or drinking are some of the common causes for insomnia. Of these the eating habits are under your control. Eating healthy helps you to enjoy a good night's rest.

You will be happy to know that adding a few foods to your diet can help you to enjoy sound sleep. Check out these wonder foods and have a peaceful slumber.

Fish

Fish

Most fishes, especially Salmon and Tuna contain vitamin B6 which helps helps in secreting the sleep inducing hormone called melatonin. Hence, fish is an excellent food to induce sleep.

Almonds

Almonds

Almonds contain magnesium which helps in promoting both sleep and muscle relaxation. So, have a spoonful of almonds before you go to bed for a sound sleep.

Tea

Tea

Do not be surprised. We are talking about decaffeinated tea like chamomile tea or green tea. Green tea contains theanine which helps to promote sleep.

Banana

Banana

Bananas are an excellent source of magnesium and potassium. These help in relaxing the overstressed muscles. Bananas also help in controlling the secretion of sleep inducing hormones of the brain. So, have a banana before going to bed.

Dairy Products

Dairy Products

Dairy products like yogurt and milk contain calcium which is effective in stress reduction and stabilization of nerve fibers. Therefore these are extremely effective against stress and help you to fall asleep better.

Oatmeal

Oatmeal

It is a wonder food indeed. Oatmeal is rich in calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, silicon and potassium, all of which are extremely helpful in inducing sleep.

Hard Boiled Egg

Hard Boiled Egg

This pre-bedtime snack is rich in protein. A hard boiled egg before bed helps you to fall asleep fast and stay asleep for a longer period of time.

Cherries

Cherries

A glass of cherry juice can actually help you to fall asleep faster. It boosts the body's supply of melatonin which helps you to fight insomnia.

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine Rice

Jasmine rice has a high glycemic index (GI) which helps you fall asleep faster compared to other varieties of rice.

Kale

Kale

Green leafy vegetables like kale and collards are rich in calcium. These foods help you to get better sleep by relaxing your muscles.

Story first published: Thursday, October 3, 2013, 18:38 [IST]
Read more about: diet