Five Bedtime Snacks For a Better Night’s Sleep

Many people experience problems either falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling as though they never really rested at all. An occasional sleepless night may not seem like a big deal, but when poor sleep becomes a regular pattern, it can affect how we feel and function throughout the day.

Getting good sleep is incredibly important for overall health and well-being. While we sleep, the body is doing important work, including repairing tissues, regulating hormones, supporting memory and concentration, and helping the immune system function properly. Consistently getting enough quality sleep may also help reduce the risk of developing certain chronic health conditions while supporting heart health, brain health, mood, energy levels, and even weight management.

Most adults are generally advised to get between seven and nine hours of sleep each night. However, getting into bed for eight hours does not necessarily mean you are getting eight hours of restorative sleep. Stress, busy schedules, screen time, caffeine, alcohol, changes in routine, and even what and when we eat can all affect how easily we fall asleep and how well we stay asleep.

If you are one of the many people who struggles to get a good night’s rest, improving your sleep habits may help. Keeping a consistent bedtime and wake-up time, creating a relaxing nighttime routine, limiting bright screens before bed, exercising regularly, and keeping your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet can all promote better sleep.

What we eat may play a role as well. Certain nutrients are involved in the production and regulation of hormones and brain chemicals associated with the sleep-wake cycle. While no single food is a cure for insomnia, making thoughtful choices about what you eat and drink, particularly later in the day, may help support your body’s natural ability to wind down.

Certain foods and drinks have sleep-promoting properties and can be a simple addition to an overall healthy sleep routine. Here are five of the best...