Foods that help you sleep

[Guest guest]

I do not know how true some of this is, but thought some of you might like to

try it. I realize some of it is passed down from generations but some just

might work. Since many of us have these problems I thought some of you might

like this info. This was sent to me. Gwen

Top 10 Foods That Will Help You Sleep

It may seem like an old wives' tale, but it's not. Certain foods really can make

you sleepy. So if you're having trouble falling asleep, try nature's sleeping

pill before you hit the medicine cabinet, reports RealAge.com. These foods will

not only help your muscles relax, but also quiet a busy mind and even induce two

sleep hormones, serotonin and melatonin.

The top 10 foods that will help you sleep, according to RealAge.com:

1. Bananas

" They're practically a sleeping pill in a peel, " quips RealAge.com. Each tasty

bite contains melatonin and serotonin to make you sleepy, as well as magnesium,

a known muscle relaxant.

2. Chamomile tea

This herbal tea is not only caffeine-free, but also has a mild sedating effect.

3. Warm milk

Mom was right! Milk contains a trace of tryptophan, an amino acid with a

sedative-like effect, as well as calcium, which helps the brain process

tryptophan.

4. Honey

If you're really wide awake, put a teaspoon or two of honey in warm milk or

chamomile tea. This tiny bit of glucose will send a message to your brain to

turn off orexin, a neurotransmitter that has been linked to alertness.

5. Potatoes

A small potato--about the size of your computer mouse--will eliminate acids that

can interfere with tryptophan. Supercharge it by mashing it with some warm milk.

6. Oatmeal

Oats are a wonderful source of melatonin. Make it with warm milk and a drizzle

of honey and you'll be lucky to make it to your bed before dozing off.

7. Almonds

Not only are almonds good for your heart, but also since they contain tryptophan

and magnesium they can make you sleepy. Very, very sleepy.

8. Flaxseeds

Can't fall asleep because you're feeling a little blue? Sprinkle some flaxseeds

on your bedtime oatmeal. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, they'll perk your mood up

and help your forget your troubles.

9. Whole wheat bread

Make a cup of chamomile tea and drizzle honey on whole wheat toast. Enjoy. The

combination will release insulin, which helps tryptophan get to your brain where

it's converted to serotonin. Zzzzzz....

10. Turkey

Arguably the most famous sleep-inducing food, turkey is packed with tryptophan.

Eat a turkey sandwich on whole wheat bread, and you'll be in Snooze City soon.

Don't want to eat a snack before bed? Then eat one of these dinners, recommended

by ers for a good night's sleep. They're high in carbohydrates and low in

protein, which will help you relax. Large, high-fat meals can keep you awake all

night.