Foods that help a person sleep include cherries, bananas and toast, according to Forbes. Other foods that can promote sleep and beat insomnia include Irish or Scottish oatmeal and warm milk.Continue Reading
Cherries are ideal foods for helping to promote sleep because they are a natural source of melatonin, a chemical that helps to regulate sleep, explains Forbes. As of 2015, research shows that, when ingesting them for better sleep, it is best to eat cherries an hour before bedtime. Bananas are also good for regulating sleep, as this fruit has magnesium and potassium, which are natural muscle relaxants. Toast is also a good choice, as many people crash after eating carbohydrates.
Oatmeal, especially Irish or Scottish oatmeal, is also a good choice for those looking for foods that promote sleep, reports Forbes. Oatmeal is a good source of carbohydrates, and it also helps to raise blood sugar, which triggers the production of insulin. The insulin the body produces helps to promote sleep. Warm milk is a common solution for sleeplessness before bed, especially when eaten with carbohydrates such as oatmeal or toast. Milk also contains L-tryptophan, an amino acid that releases serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that helps to regulate sleep, explains About.com. This chemical also helps to regulate the mood, memory and learning.Learn more about Vitamins & Supplements