Sleep Easy: Foods High in Vitamin Zzz

There’s an old wives tale that warm milk is the perfect trick to getting some shut eye. But has anybody found this to be true? And who the heck wants to drink warm milk?!

Researchers have found several foods that help you fall asleep, not because mom said so… but because science says so.

1. Popcorn (nonfat)
2. Oatmeal
3. Pretzels
4. Bananas
5. Wine

Okay, so here’s the “science” behind these sleep-inducing foods:

The first 3 foods work because they are high in carbohydrates and low in fat. Carbs induce a chemical in your body that helps you relax. That’s why many high-carb foods are considered “comfort foods”. You don’t want fattening foods before you go to bed because they could cause your digestion to slow down which can lead to a restless night of sleeping.

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Bananas are rich in melatonin, which is a hormone that aids in sleep. Stress can interrupt your melatonin levels – so if you’re going through a tense period in your life or are having a hard time at work, bananas can be your best friend in getting some shut-eye.

Whether it’s wine or another alcoholic beverage, keep it in moderation – just one glass is the perfect amount. Studies show one alcoholic drink relax blood vessels, but any more than one serving starts to reverse the effects. To put it simply, relaxed blood vessels lead to other body functions start to relax, helping you to fall asleep.

Eat well, and sweet dreams.

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