While eating too soon before bed can hamper your sleep, there are certain foods that could help you get a better night’s rest, according to sleep experts.
What’s more, Bed Kingdom has revealed a sweat treat loaded with “the perfect nutrients” to help you enjoy a good night’s sleep.
While chocolate might not seem like a healthy late-night snack, the experts explained this may be exactly what you need to relax.
Bed Kingdom said: “Eating dark chocolate in moderation at least an hour before bed can result in a more productive night’s sleep.
“The properties found within dark chocolate are known to promote the production of serotonin, a chemical which is directly linked to calmness and relaxation.”
Furthermore, tucking into the dark bar of the indulgent stuff could also reduce stress levels before bed.
To create the perfect sleep-inducing snack, the experts suggested pairing dark chocolate with other slumber-enhancing foods like bananas and almonds. However, peanut butter could also work.
They said: “Consuming peanut butter as part of a late night, healthy snack can enhance your quality of sleep, as well as stabilise your blood sugar levels and support muscle growth.
“Full of key nutrients like heart-healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and more, peanut butter also contains sleep-inducing chemical tryptophan to help your body relax into sleep mode.”
Other nuts like almonds, walnuts, and cashews also promote a healthy sleep schedule thanks to their mixture of melatonin, magnesium, and zinc.
But if you prefer a savoury snack before bed, reaching for string cheese could also work.
Packed with fats and proteins to “satisfy your hunger and cravings through the night”, string cheese is slowly digested by your body for a peaceful night’s rest.
“It also gives your body a dose of tryptophan to help you fall asleep quicker,” Bed Kingdom said.
Alternatively, a popcorn-fuelled movie night could also help you doze off.
Rich in fibre and carbs, popcorn supports the production of the feel-good chemical serotonin, one of the most important components of a great sleep.
The experts added: “Like many of the sleep-promoting foods, popcorn makes tryptophan, which unlocks melatonin and serotonin to regulate your sleep schedule.
“Next time you’re unwinding to a TV show or movie, add a healthy dose of popcorn to prepare your body for bed.”
