Having a tough time falling asleep or staying asleep? The remedy could be a few simple tweaks to your diet. Add in some of these foods to your lunches and dinners, and you could find yourself catching more zzz’s than you have in a while:
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Avocados
Avocados are known for their superfood qualities. They contain tons of unsaturated fat (the good kind!), which is vital to several bodily processes, like boosting your brain’s functions. The high fat levels can also increase serotonin, the hormone that helps your brain relax for sleep.
Artichokes
Most foods that keep your digestive tract on track are also good for sleep. When your gut’s happy, your brain’s happy, and your body is more able to relax for bedtime. Artichokes help boost good bacteria in your gut to keep your digestive tract moving in the right direction, which could lead to an excellent night of sleep.
Turkey
You know that drowsy feeling you get after eating Thanksgiving dinner? That’s partly because of how satisfied your belly feels, but it’s also partly because of the turkey. Turkey contains tryptophan, an amino acid that naturally increases melatonin, a sleep hormone, in the body.
Steak
Beef is also a leading producer of tryptophan, so eating steak may leave you with the same sleepy feeling as turkey does. It’s best to eat steak as a late lunch or an early dinner, so your body has plenty of time to start the digestion process and get that tryptophan moving through to get you into the mood for sleep.
Need some ideas for a healthy steak dinner? Head over to Steak University for cooking methods, recipes, and drool-worthy inspiration.
Nuts
Several nuts are nutrient-rich and crucial to a heart-healthy and brain-healthy diet because they contain good fats. Walnuts and almonds are among the best types of nuts for you to consume, not just because they’re rich with vitamins and nutrients, but also because they could promote a relaxing night’s sleep. These nuts contain high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids that convert to DHA, a substance that increases serotonin production.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, like tuna, salmon, and halibut, are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making them good for your brain and your sleep. Several types of fish also contain vitamin D, an essential vitamin responsible for several bodily processes, but also linked to healthy sleep patterns.
Legumes
Healthy, filling foods containing lots of nutrients are some of the best you can eat to get a solid night of sleep. Legumes fit the bill because, like turkey and steak, they contain tryptophan that converts to serotonin and melatonin. Legumes include foods like lima beans, chickpeas, and black beans, and can be used in foods like burritos, rice bowls, soups, and salads.
Whole Grains
Whole grains contain complex carbohydrates that improve digestion and provide your body with the energy it needs to carry out metabolic tasks. Since whole grains help regulate the body and your blood sugar, which can lead to an improved sleeping pattern. Avoid simple carbs, like rice, white bread, and sugary foods, which interrupt your normal blood sugar levels and your body’s ability to relax for bedtime.
Transform Your Foods into a Sleep-Inducing Diet
Plenty of activity and healthy foods may be all you need to get the restful nights you deserve. Include lots of whole grains, leafy veggies, beans, nuts, fish, and steak in your meals, and you’ll likely soon notice a positive shift in your sleeping patterns. Give our steaks a try! Chicago Steak Company sells you only the best quality boneless and bone-in steaks, and you can order them conveniently from our website.