Tired? Here’s 5 Foods that can help you catch up on sleep

Pierre Van ZylHealth + Nutrition, health tips, Nutrition, Sleep

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I’m a bit of a nightmare for playing on my phone, laptop, desktop, iPad (and anything else thats lights up) right until bedtime. It’s not a good idea, given that the stimulation makes it difficult for your brain to switch off when you close your eyes. You need at least 30 minutes of chill-time before bed so that you can drift off quickly when the time comes. You can also pay closer attention to your diet – these 5 foods will help you fall asleep naturally. Bring on those Zzz’s.

 

Almonds

These nuts are not only full of protein, but  provide a solid dose of magnesium which helps to promote sleep and muscle relaxation. Enjoy a small handful after dinner or as part of your evening meal and feel ready to wind-down come bed time.

 

 

Bananas

They contain the sleep-inducing amino acid tryptophan, which ultimately turns into serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation. While they make an amazing one-ingredient ice-cream, they do contain plenty of natural sugar, so enjoy responsibly!

 

Salmon

One of my favourite foods of all time, Salmon boasts a healthy amount of vitamin B6 which is needed to make melatonin, a hormone that promotes sleepiness. Try my recipe for Crispy Skin Salmon, or just enjoy a few slices of the smoked stuff of your dinner. Delicious.

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Whipped up my take on a Poke Bowl for lunch with deliciously fresh Tasmanian @HuonSalmon. Just cubed up some of their sashimi grade fillet, and added to a bowl of cos lettuce, avocado, broccoli rice (can sub brown rice), ginger spiced almonds, toasted coconut and black sesame. Serve with tamari and a squeeze of lime before delving in. Who said healthy had to be time consuming? This legit took 10 minutes to make. I’m also a massive sucker for their smoked salmon – it will be on my Christmas party platter for SURE (which is probably just a party of one, with a fork and bowl of salmon). Side note: I love Huon farm their salmon responsibly, with a ratio of 1% fish to 99% water so they’re free to swim around happily. These guys farm their salmon at night so it’s fresher by day, which is rather clever of them, dontcha think?! So keen. You can order Huon Salmon online which is perfect if want to buy a fillet for Christmas! #huonsalmon #lunch #ad #poke #Christmas

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Kale

Did you know a diet lacking in calcium can cause difficulties in falling to sleep? While dairy products are well-known calcium-rich foods, you can also get a great dose from dark green leafy vegetables like kale. If kale makes you want to run in fear, broccoli is just as awesome.

Cherries

They’re one of the only natural sources of melatonin, so enjoy a handful for dessert. If fresh ones aren’t in season, you can often find them in the frozen isle, or opt for a small glass of 100% cherry juice.

Don’t forget sleep is an amazing healer – it helps your body recover from exercise and leaves you fighting fit, ready to attack it again the next day. Aim for 8 hours a night.
If all else fails, relaxing music, candles and a delicious cup of herbal tea is sure to knock you out.

What are your favourite pre-bed foods?