Daily Times

It’s just typical. We spend the whole day feeling completely exhausted, and then the minute our head hits the pillow we’re more wide awake than ever. What gives? The truth is it could be a number of things, from stress to eating the wrong foods before bed.

But in the same way that some foods keep us awake, there are some foods that help you sleep too.

Historically, human sleeping patterns were directly linked with the natural light and dark cycles of nature. Dwindling light levels stimulated a nerve pathway in the brain, encouraging it to produce the sleep-inducing hormones, melatonin and serotonin.

Chickpeas – these miracle legumes not only keep you fuller for longer, but they are jam packed with the B6 vitamin. B6 is paramount to helping your body produce the feel good hormone, serotonin, which allows your muscles to relax and your mind to switch off ready for bed. Hummus is a great source, or why not try incorporating chick peas in to a healthy curry.

Leafy greens – packed with calcium, leafy greens such as kale, broccoli and spinach are not only fantastic for inducing a good night’s rest, but they also keep you feeling fuller for longer so you won’t wake up in the middle of the night because of frustrating blood sugar fluctuations.

Beans – beans and other vegetables contain bumper amounts of Vitamin B, which helps your body regulate the sleep cycle and produce serotonin – an important ‘ingredient’ to produce melatonin.

Potatoes – eating complex carbs can make you sleepy and healthy sweet potatoes contain muscle-relaxing potassium as well.