Can Eating Well Improve Sleep?
In short, yes! While there are no magic or “super” foods for sleep, following the tips below can help your body optimize sleep onset, duration and quality.
Have LESS of:
- Night caps – while alcohol can make us feel relaxed and sleepy, it can also lead to middle-of the night waking and decreased sleep quality.
- Caffeine – ideally, your last cup of coffee or tea should be consumed 8 hours before bedtime.
- Large evening meals – going to bed too full can interfere with digestion and result in less restorative sleep.
Have MORE of:
- Whole or unprocessed foods.
- Fatty fish.
- Milk (if you include dairy).
- Cherries and Kiwi.
These foods have been found to promote good quality sleep. Cherries, for example, are packed with antioxidants which may help combat oxidative stress, a condition that is linked to multiple chronic diseases and premature aging. Here’s a great recipe you should try:
Dan Neuman
Registered Dietitian MSc