Certain foods cause us to become tired and fall asleep quickly, due to chemical reactions that occur in the body and brain, triggering neurotransmitters like serotonin and hormones like melatonin. Eating foods that trigger these substances helps to quiet our minds and calm our bodies, lulling us into a state where we can naturally drift off into peaceful sleep. If you have a hard time sleeping and are looking for natural sleep aids that really work, learn about the foods that can relax and soothe you into somnolence.
Milk
Milk contains tryptophan, a naturally occurring amino acid used by the brain which causes the body to relax, according to Clipmarks.com. Tryptophan is also found in turkey, as you may know if you have ever fallen asleep after a big turkey dinner on Thanksgiving. Tryptophan is converted in the brain to serotonin, which triggers the body to relax and go to sleep. Milk also contains calcium, a natural sleep aid which helps the body process tryptophan, according to Helpguide.org.
Raw Honey
Dr. Theodore A. Baroody, in his book, "Alkalize or Die," recommends taking a teaspoon or two of raw honey either straight or mixed in warm milk to relax and help the body prepare for sleep. Raw honey is high in potassium, helping to neutralize the acids in the body, allowing naturally occurring tryptophan to do its work in the system and relax the body. Clipmarks.com points out that that small amounts of glucose alter the brain to stop producing a neurotransmitter known as orexin, that helps to keep us alert.
Bananas
High in magnesium and potassium, bananas help to reduce muscle tightness and relax the body, according to Clipmarks.com. They also stimulate the production of melatonin and serotonin.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea offers a mild, sedative-like effect for the body and is an excellent sleep inducement, according to Jethro Kloss, in his book on herbal treatments, "Back to Eden."
Almonds
Almonds contain both tryptophan and magnesium, according to Kloss, and can be eaten to help relax the body and prepare it for rest.
Potatoes
Potatoes encourage sleepiness and help to neutralize acids in the body that interfere with the action of tryptophan, according to Clipmarks.com.
Avocados and Coconuts
FactsAboutInsomnia.org suggests eating avocados and coconuts, two healthy fats that help to balance the system and keep your blood sugar stable, which avoids the highs and lows that go along with sugary foods.
Oats
Oatmeal and oatmeal cookies are high in melatonin, the sleep hormone, and help to bring on drowsiness, points out Clipmarks.com.
Whole Grain Toast
A piece of whole grain bread, lightly toasted makes a great bed-time snack, stimulating the production of insulin which aids neural pathways getting tryptophan to the brain to help produce serotonin and sleepiness.
