A restorative slumber is dependent on a lot more than just what time you go to bed. Stress levels, exposure to digital devices and physical activity can all have an impact on the quality of your sleep.
While most people are aware that downing back a Nespresso at 11 pm is not ideal, the relationship between diet and sleep is less acknowledged. It’s important to realize that not only can certain foods keep you awake during the night, but that certain nutrients are needed by the body to maintain healthy sleep cycles. For example, for your body to produce healthy levels of the sleep hormone Melatonin, specific nutrients such as; tryptophan, magnesium, calcium, and B6 are all essential. If your diet is lacking in even one of these nutrients, your melatonin production may be compromised and cause you to toss and turn all night.
To reap the benefits from 8 hours of quality shut-eye, it’s important to start implementing specific nutrients daily:
Here are a few dietary tips to help you optimize your sleep:
- Have a regular eating pattern and try not eating a big meal 2 hours before bed. If you are in bed and find that you are hungry, try an easy-to-digest snack such as; figs, dates, bananas or yogurt.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day to promote alertness and focus, and minimize shifts in energy levels. Dehydration leads to feeling sluggish and tired throughout the day, which can eventually disrupt sleep patterns.
- Make sure to have a well-balanced diet that allows you to reach your daily nutrient intake. Try supplementing key nutrients such as magnesium and zinc, which are typically low in New Zealand soils and difficult to get through diet alone.
- Eat foods high in tryptophan, the amino acid needed for melatonin production. Foods include; bananas, turkey, and eggs.
Essential Sleep & Stress Nutrients has been formulated by the Sleep Specialists at SleepDrops and contains all the essential sleep co-factors that are needed to support deep restorative sleep. Click here to find out more
If you struggle with your sleep and want help and guidance from a trained professional, call us on 0800 345 999 to discuss booking a consultation with our Naturopathic Doctor. Easy payment plans are available.
