Keys To Improve Rest

Studies have shown that there is a definite link between sleep deprivation and weight gain.But, what happens if you are one that struggles to either go to sleep, get restful sleep, or remain asleep?

Help is on the way! There are foods that are natural sleep remedies.

There are two hormones that assist the body in naturally reducing stress and helps you relax.Melatonin and Serotonin aid the body in getting adequate amounts and quality sleep.

There are four key vitamins and minerals that naturally help the body produce these two “relaxing hormones” and they are found in many foods.

Potassium, Vitamin B6, Magnesium and Calcium are all needed to help the body relax.

Potassium is found in bananas, dark leafy greens like spinach and kale, yoghurt, mushrooms and apricots.

Vitamin B6 is found in nuts, seeds, fish and wheat bran.

Magnesium is found in bananas, yoghurt, brown rice, fish, and dark leafy greens.

Calcium is found in yoghurt, milk and cheese.

In addition to the four key vitamins and minerals needed to get a restful sleep, the body also needs tryptophan which is a necessary amino acid which is found in red meats, seeds, nuts, eggs and dairy.

There are several other foods that can help you sleep but this is just a quick list.Take time to research out foods that are high in these vitamins, minerals and amino acids.There are a wide variety of foods that you can easily introduce into your meal plan, to help you rest better.

As always, there are not only foods that are natural sleep remedies; there are also foods that will interfere with a good night’s rest.

Caffeine, alcohol, high fat meals, spicy foods and too much liquid can cause a sleepless night.If you choose to eat and drink any of these, consume them several hours before bed.

It seems the more I study about the natural functions of the body, it always points back to the balanced food pyramid. Eating balanced meals, consuming the right portions of food from each food group will aid the body in functioning as it was designed.

In addition to foods to avoid, and foods to increase in your diet, there are other natural remedies that will help.

There are several calming essential oils that also help the body naturally relax.The first essential I used to relax was lavender. It is a refreshing scent, yet not too overwhelming.Other relaxing oils are sandalwood, chamomile and jasmine.

I have known many people turn to drugs to get a good night’s rest; before going to that extreme, you may want to try just a few of these natural methods to improve rest. Combining healthy foods, taking food supplements if needed, and utilizing the essential oils could change your life.

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