Food vs. Sleep

Did you know what we eat and our diet affects our sleep cycle? 

Nutritionists recommend eating a balanced and consistent that is made up mostly of vegetables and fruits. An example of this diet is the 'Mediterranean Diet' as the diet provides stable sources of essential vitamins and minerals, including those that can promote sleep. 

Data shows that those who eat less fibre and more fats and sugars throughout the day often have lighter, and less restorative sleep compared to their counterparts. Try to avoid fatty or spicy foods closer to your nightly slumber as they are tougher to digest that lighter foods such as whole grains and fruits. Heavy digestion before bedtime makes it harder for your body to relax and drift off to sleep. 

Here are a few easy and simple additions to add into your diet to aid you falling into your dreams. 

Almonds

Almonds contain high doses of melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleeping and waking cycle, with just one serving of whole almonds is enough to promote muscle relaxation and sleep. With almonds being so readily available for purchase, they make a healthy and easy addition to your diet. 

Chamomile

Traditionally the herb chamomile, usually brewed in hot water to make tea, is an old time favourite remedy for insomnia and in considered a natural sleep inducer. The compound Apigenin is responsible for sleep inducing properties. Apigenin activates GABA A receptors, a process which is thought to stimulate the sleep process. 

You can usually find chamomile tea bags in most supermarkets across the UK. 

Salmon

Fatty fish provides a healthy does of vitamin D and Omega-3's into your diet. These regulate your bodies serotonin levels