Eat Your Way to Better Sleep!

According to research published by the authoritative Sleep Council, certain nutrients can play a vital role in helping people to sleep better. In this edition of the Odd Size Blog, we reveal six different foods that you should be including in your diet if you want to rack up those essential ZZZ's...

  1. Almonds. These tasty nuts contain melatonin, the hormone which regulates sleep. Just a handful of almonds can help boost sleep quality and also give you plenty of other essential nutrients like riboflavin, manganese and phosphorus. 
  2. Bananas. A quick, healthy and easy snack, bananas contain potassium and magnesium, both of which are natural muscle relaxants that can help you to feel more tired. They also contain healthy carbohydrates that also promote a sleepy feeling. 
  3. Kiwi Fruit. This exotic fruit contains a number of compounds that help promote sleep, such as calcium, magnesium, potassium and melatonin. As they're particularly low in calories, they make for a perfect bedtime snack. A study carried out jointly between the College of Nursing and the School of Nutrition & Health Sciences (both in Taiwan) showed that people who ate two kiwis an hour before bed for a period of one month noticed that their total sleep-time had increased. It also took them less time to fall asleep than people in a control group.
  4. Fatty Fish. Mackerel, salmon and tuna contain lots of vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids. Both of these nutrients increase the production of serotonin, which has sleep-promoting properties.
  5. Walnuts. Like almonds, walnuts contain sleep-promoting chemicals such as melatonin, serotonin and manganese. As well as helping you get a good night's sleep, these chemicals can also help to boost your mood. 
  6. Milk. An amino acid called tryptophan is present in milk. Tryptophan encourages the body to produce serotonin, which can help you fall asleep faster and also elevate your mood. The effect is even more pronounced if the milk is gently heated first, giving the drinker a warm, relaxed feeling that is conducive to good sleep.

Even if you're eating all the right foods, the quality of your sleep will still correlate directly with the quality of your bed and mattress. That's where Odd Size Beds comes in. With our extensive collection of beds, mattresses and accessories, we can help you create the perfect sleeping environment. Browse our range today!

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