Desiring a treat? Opt for a healthy choice.
Eating right before bedtime is not recommended. Ideally, your body should focus on resting, not digesting food. Furthermore, going to bed immediately after consuming a heavy meal will decrease the number of calories your metabolism naturally burns. Nevertheless, occasional late-night cravings are common, and it is acceptable to have a delicious yet nutritious snack before calling it a day, as long as it is not a pint of ice cream.
For a sweet and satisfying option, consider choosing a banana. Apart from being a generally satisfying snack, bananas are rich in vitamin B6, which aids in converting tryptophan into serotonin. Serotonin is crucial for promoting quality sleep. If desired, pair your banana with some peanut butter or spread them on whole wheat toast. Peanut butter, in addition to being a source of protein and beneficial fats, contains tryptophan. When combined with bananas, these elements can lead to increased serotonin production in the body.
If you crave a different kind of sweetness, consider indulging in some sour cherries. These cherries possess melatonin, another key sleep-inducing compound, as well as procyanidin B-2, a phytochemical that safeguards your body’s tryptophan supplies. Blend them into a smoothie with yogurt for a delicious and nutritious treat that is gentle on your digestive system.
