When you think about nutrition, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, or lowering your risk of illness and disease. But have you ever considered how your food choices might affect your sleep?
As adults, we should aim for at least 7 hours of quality sleep each night. As a mom to young kids, I can honestly say that’s easier said than done! My sleep is often interrupted, and I’ve learned that good nutrition can help make the sleep I do get more restful- and that’s a win in my book! Looking at your personal nutrition habits can play an important role in catching more z’s, leading to overall better health.
Our friends at the University of Michigan School of Public Health shared some helpful tips on how our food choices can influence sleep quality:
- Fill up on fiber and balance your plate. Eating more fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats can lead to deeper, more restorative sleep. Check out Spend Smart. Eat Smart. for balanced snack and meal ideas!
- Skip the saturated fats and refined carbs—especially before bed. Instead, opt for whole grains and lower-fat choices to help you feel full and satisfied through the night.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine close to bedtime. They can make it harder to fall asleep and may disrupt your sleep cycles.
Over the years, I’ve noticed that heavier meals and greasy foods tend to leave me tossing and turning. By paying attention to what I eat during the day, I can improve how I sleep at night. And when sleep is already broken thanks to little ones, every bit of quality rest counts!
If you’re looking to boost your sleep and your overall health, aim for a balanced diet rich in fruits, veggies, whole grains, and healthy fats. Give these tips a try for a more restful night of sleep- your body will thank you!
