Eat Your Way to a Better Night’s Sleep
Your diet can have a real impact on your sleep. At night, our brain releases a hormone called melatonin that makes us feel sleepy. Melatonin release is controlled by our natural sleep-wake cycle, which can be affected by things like diet. When this cycle is disrupted, falling and staying asleep can be hard. Although melatonin supplements can be used as sleep aids, some foods naturally contain melatonin that may help you sleep better. Many of those foods are part of the Blue Zones diet. For example, tart cherries are the single best food source of melatonin. Nuts and fatty fish are also high in melatonin. In addition to melatonin, foods that are rich in fiber and protein, including green leafy vegetables, fruits, nuts, and whole grains, can help you get a better night’s sleep.
