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Lifestyle

5 Foods to Help You Fall Asleep

This article is written by a student writer from the Spoon University at Syracuse chapter.

Have you ever been consumed by the feeling of sheer exhaustion all day long? Or even worse, the most painfully ironic feeling of finally getting into bed and all of a sudden you are more awake than you had been all day? I know I have. This is why I was so inspired to take matters into my own hands and find natural remedies for sleep. It turns out that the right types of food can really be the best medicine. Take my word for it and I assure you you will be on the right path towards catching those z’s you very well deserve.

1. Tea: 

twisted tea tea
Mackenzie Huggins

Okay, here’s the tea: this very well may be your best bet when it comes to sleep. Opting for a warm nighttime tea can relax your body and help to decrease anxiety. Chamomile tea, a favorite of mine, is one of the best teas for sleep. It has been shown to promote drowsiness and can decrease worry and stress.

2. Turkey:

ACE Pumpkin Cider chicken meat
Helena Lin

There is always something about turkey that makes me feel just that much sleepier. For a while, I though I was just imaging this but it turns out that turkey actually contains the amino acid tryptophan which contributes to drowsiness. This amino acid is an ingredient in melatonin, the hormone that controls sleepiness. Basically what i’m trying to get here is that turkey can make you sleepy and a few pieces before bed can go along way.

3. Nuts:

Brain Food nut almond
Torey Walsh

Nuts are a great sleep remedy. Nuts like almonds and walnuts are a great way to naturally promote drowsiness. Almonds contain magnesium, the mineral that is needed to decrease stress and increase relaxation. And, just like turkey, walnuts contain tryptophan which helps you to feel sleepy. This nut may also lead to to a better night’s sleep as well. I highly recommend giving this remedy a try…I mean why nut?

4. Oatmeal:

Nutrient Dense Meals
Ellie Yamanaka

Though it is advertised as a breakfast food, oatmeal has its benefits at all hours of the day. This food is not only delicious but is a great snack before bed. The oats in the oatmeal are loaded with magnesium, melatonin, calcium and potassium–all of which contribute to your ability to fall sleep.

5. Bananas:

Simple Banana Bread banana pasture
Amelia Hitchens

Not only are bananas a great choice for a healthy snack during the daytime, but they are also a great option for a necessary late night snack. Bananas contain magnesium which helps your body stay asleep. The magnesium in bananas also helps calm your nerves, your body and your mind. Sounds like a recipe for quality sleep to me.

I have wanted to join Spoon University for as long as I can remember so I am so excited to finally be a part of it! Anyone who knows me knows about my passion for all things culinary including food photography, and the study of nutrition. I also love exploring new restaurants and love to taste new cuisine when I travel. I can’t wait to finally be a part of Spoon University and Spoon Cuse!