Struggling with insomnia? You’re not alone in this battle against sleeplessness.

In a 2015 survey conducted by electronic goods giant Phillips, it was revealed that nearly 93% of Indians grapple with sleep deprivation (1). This staggering statistic sheds light on the widespread issue of inadequate sleep among the populace.

Causes of Sleep Disturbances

Numerous factors contribute to these sleep disturbances, ranging from demanding work schedules and chronic stress to poor dietary choices and undiagnosed mental health conditions. The complex interplay of these elements often disrupts the natural sleep-wake cycle, leaving individuals tossing and turning in bed, yearning for a restful night’s sleep.

Link Between Nighttime Snacks and Better Sleep

But here’s some encouraging news: your nighttime snack choices could hold the key to better sleep! If you find yourself craving a midnight munch, opting for certain sleep-inducing snacks might just pave the way for a more peaceful slumber.

Top 5 Fruits to Improve Sleep Quality

Bananas

Bananas, for instance, offer more than just a delicious flavor. Packed with melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep patterns, and tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin, bananas serve as a natural aid to relaxation and tranquility (2).

Tart Cherries

Tart cherries emerge as another promising option for those seeking better sleep. These tangy fruits boast high levels of melatonin, earning them the reputation of a “miracle” remedy for insomniacs. Whether eaten whole or sipped as juice, tart cherries offer a refreshing and effective solution to bedtime woes. One proposed mechanism by which tart cherries may promote sleep is their relatively elevated melatonin content, a compound known for its role in regulating sleep patterns. Additionally, tart cherries may influence sleep through their anti-inflammatory properties, as certain inflammatory cytokines are closely linked to sleep regulation (3).

Pineapples

In the realm of tropical delights, pineapples stand out not only for their tantalizing taste but also for their sleep-enhancing properties (4). Rich in melatonin, vitamin C, magnesium, and fiber, pineapples contribute to improved sleep quality and duration, making them a sweet and nutritious choice for bedtime snacks.

Kiwi

Kiwi, with its vibrant green flesh, emerges as a surprising ally in the quest for better sleep (5). Bursting with vitamin C and melatonin, this humble fruit packs a powerful punch when it comes to promoting restful slumber. Incorporating kiwi into your nightly routine may be just the remedy needed to drift off into dreamland.

Papaya

Last but not least, the luscious papaya offers a wealth of nutrients that support sleep health (6). With ample amounts of folate, vitamin C, vitamin E, and potassium, papayas provide a nourishing boost to overall well-being, including sleep quality and duration. Adding this tropical gem to your evening snack repertoire could be the key to unlocking a peaceful night’s rest.

In conclusion, the path to better sleep may lie in the humble offerings of nature’s bounty. By choosing wisely and incorporating sleep-supportive snacks into your nightly routine, you can take proactive steps towards achieving a more restful and rejuvenating sleep experience. So, the next time hunger strikes in the dead of night, reach for one of these sleep-inducing treats and prepare to drift off into blissful slumber.

References:

1. 93% Indians are sleep-deprived – Study
   
   https://pharmaleaders.tv/93-indians-are-sleep-deprived-study/




2. The effect of banana dose and duration on the decrease of sleep disorders in the elderly
   
   doi: 10.5455/jmas.134020




3. Effects of a tart cherry juice beverage on the sleep of older adults with insomnia: a pilot study
   
   Pigeon WR, Carr M, Gorman C, Perlis ML. Effects of a tart cherry juice beverage on the sleep of older adults with insomnia: a pilot study. J Med Food. 2010 Jun;13(3):579-83. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2009.0096. PMID: 20438325; PMCID: PMC3133468.




4. Dietary Sources and Bioactivities of Melatonin. Nutrients
   
   Meng X, Li Y, Li S, Zhou Y, Gan RY, Xu DP, Li HB. Dietary Sources and Bioactivities of Melatonin. Nutrients. 2017 Apr 7;9(4):367. doi: 10.3390/nu9040367. PMID: 28387721; PMCID: PMC5409706.




5. Effect of kiwifruit consumption on sleep quality in adults with sleep problems
   
   Lin HH, Tsai PS, Fang SC, Liu JF. Effect of kiwifruit consumption on sleep quality in adults with sleep problems. Asia Pac J Clin Nutr. 2011;20(2):169-74. PMID: 21669584.



Evaluation of anxiolytic and sedative effects of 80% ethanolic Carica papaya L. (Caricaceae) pulp extract in mice

Kebebew Z, Shibeshi W. Evaluation of anxiolytic and sedative effects of 80% ethanolic Carica papaya L. (Caricaceae) pulp extract in mice. J Ethnopharmacol. 2013 Nov 25;150(2):665-71. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2013.09.023. Epub 2013 Oct 9. PMID: 24120519.

Source-Medindia