Foods to Help You Sleep

#health_above_all_nutrition

I don’t think I’ve met a client who has told me they get the sleep they need. The problem is, lack of sleep leads to a whole host of other issues, including heightened anxiety, weight gain, trouble focusing, weakened immunity, and higher risk for diabetes and hypertension. Instead of popping sleeping pills, which can create other issues, perhaps look at the foods you can nourish your body with instead.

Recent studies have found that diets low in alpha carotene, vitamin D, lauric acid, lycopene, magnesium and zinc may be associated with sleep issues. So, what does that mean in terms of food choices for better sleep? Here are some examples:

  • Alpha-carotene- carrots or foods made with canned pumpkin
  • Vitamin D- Greek yogurt or warm milk
  • Lauric acid- Coconut oil
  • Lycopene- Tomatoes
  • Magnesium- Chia seeds, pumpkin seed kernels, walnuts
  • Zinc- red meat, wheat germ

I should also mention that research supports drinking calming teas, like chamomile, valerian root, lavender, lemon balm or passionflower to help improve sleep quality. It’s also important to implement some behavior changes, like not eating for 2-3 hours before trying to get some shut eye.

Here are some of my favorite natural sleep remedies to try during the evening:

  1. Cup of Greek yogurt with 2 tbsp Carrington Farms Chia Seeds and a few walnuts.
  2. Chamomile tea with warm milk.
  3. Warm milk smoothie with Carrington Farms Chia Seeds, wheat germ and your favorite berries mixed in a blender.
  4. Oven baked kale chips (beet and parsnips work well too) using Carrington Farms Organic Liquid Coconut Oil or Carrington Farms Coconut Oil Spray.

Power pack your evening routine. It may just help you to sleep better, feel better and live better. It’s what your body needs.