Eat Your Way To Better Sleep (Yes We Do Support Late Night Snacking)

When it comes to disrupted sleep, we are often quick to blame a busy lifestyle and work related stress for those restless nights. While both may be contributing factors, diet and exercise play a key role in ensuring a good nights rest.  With more than 50% of the Australian population not getting the recommended 7 hours of sleep per night, it’s time to ditch the coffee after 4pm, amp up the exercise and introduce some sleep-friendly foods into the diet. If a few restless nights have been on the agenda, try snacking on these foods before you go to bed. 

Almonds: High in potassium and Vitamin B, almonds help our nervous system to relax allowing us to wind down easier after a long and stressful day. Grab a handful of almonds as a healthy late night snack that will not only promote better sleep but will also contribute to your heart health. 

Bananas: Packed with B complex vitamins and potassium, bananas are a natural muscle relaxant. If you are having trouble switching off at night, skip the sheep counting and have a glass of milk and banana instead. If your evening included a gym session, it will also double up as a protein shake alternative. 

Brown Rice: Brown rice contains GABA – gamma –amino butyric acid, which works as a natural tranquilizer, and helps calm the nervous system. If you have been reluctant to switch to the healthier option, a restless night may be a good reason to ditch the white rice for dinner. 

Cherries: Cherry’s allow the body to release melatonin, which is the body’s “clock hormone”. Melatonin is essential in promoting a healthy sleep cycle of falling asleep and waking up. Swap your evening dessert with a handful of cherries. It will not only be good for your sleep but will be even better for the waistline. 

Chickpeas: Chickpeas are packed with Vitamin B6, which also helps regulate the body’s production of melatonin. If you enjoy a late night snack, opt for a homemade hummus with celery sticks. 

Kale: One of the leading causes of insomnia is magnesium deficiency so add a bunch of kale to your smoothie to ensure a good nights sleep. If you are having a night in, why not make some kale chips. They are easy to prepare and taste better than calorie empty crisps. 

Walnuts: Tryptophan, found in walnuts, is a sleep-enhancing amino acid, which is converted into serotonin in the brain. A handful of walnuts will not only help you sleep, but will promote heart health and healthy skin. It's a win all around really.