Consume these foods to help you sleep better

In this hectic day an age, getting a good night's sleep can sometimes feel like wishful thinking. With so much to do and so much to think about doing, all that work and stress can make getting seven to nine hours of rest a challenge. However, there are a few ways you can try to ensure you sleep properly. Hot baths, meditation, soft music and tea are some methods many people have found to be beneficial. However, if you've tried these ways and it hasn't worked, certain foods might just do the trick. Here are a few foods to help you sleep better.

Kiwis practically tick all the wellness boxes. It's delicious, nutritious and low in calories. A medium-sized kiwi is approximately 50 calories. It is also a rich source of vitamin Cand vitamin K. Eating kiwis can also help improve digestive health and reduce cholesterol and inflammation. Consume one or two kiwis just before bed to help you sleep better.

One of the most popular teas in the world has to be chamomile tea due to its many health benefits. Improving sleep quality is one of those benefits many people believe this herbal tea can help with. This is because it contains properties that can help reduce stress and anxiety. It also contains apigenin, an antioxidant that merges certain receptors in the brain that can reduce insomnia and induce sleep.

Trouble sleeping? Snack on almonds. These nuts are probably the easiest foods to munch on and it may just help get you through the night. Researchers claim almonds can improve sleep quality quickly. Best of all you don't have to prepare it. It also helps to reduce levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can cause sleep disruption.

Summer is the perfect time to explore the many ways you can consume mangoes. One delicious and satisfying way to enjoy this fruit is in the form of mango lassi. Not only is it yummy, but it also helps curb your sweet craving and hunger pangs. It is also packed with protein, vitamins and antioxidants. To make this delicious treat, all you need is a couple of mangoes and yoghurt, and you are set.

Chickpeas are a rich source of fibre and vitamin B6. These nutrients help the body to produce serotonin. As a result, this process helps you to sleep better. Best of all you can consume it in a variety of ways. The choice is yours. Add it to your salad, soup, or even a stew.

If you have been having a really hard time getting some rest, consume halibut at dinner. It is loaded with tryptophan and vitamin B6, which is extremely beneficial as it will help you sleep. Poultry, soybeans, milk, yoghurt, nuts, and eggs are some other food items that contain tryptophan. What's great about this piece of fish is that it has a mild flavour so it can go with anything. You could consume it with steamed or grilled vegetables.

Need something to munch on before bed? Try Nonfat popcorn. This food item contains carbohydrates that help transport amino acid tryptophan into your brain. This makes it easier to make serotonin, a sleep-inducing neurotransmitter. Eating a big meal a couple of hours before bed can keep you awake all night. However, this popcorn contains only 93 calories and won't affect your sleep. Opt for fat-free popcorn without any flavour. If you like, you can add a bit of curry powder to spruce things up.