Lack of Sleep can promote Weight Gain
Getting good nights sleep could be the answer to your struggle with weight loss.
Foods for a better nights sleep
Bananas
Bananas are a treasure trove of sleep enhancing nutrients. They contain magnesium, vitamin C and vitamin B6 needed to convert the amino acid tryptophan into serotonin which induces peaceful sleep. Also the potassium in bananas works together with magnesium to help relax overstressed muscles.
A banana is a high carbohydrate bedtime snack which can promote a good nights sleep by releasing insulin needed to drive tryptophan into the brain for conversion to serotonin.
A banana with an oatcake makes a good snack as oats are also high in magnesium and vitamin B6
Yoghurt
Yoghurt is a good source of calcium (200mg per 125g serving). Not only is calcium an important structural mineral for bones and teeth but it can also promote restful sleep. It is thought that calcium plays a role in the activation of the production of melatonin the hormone responsible for regulating the body’s sleep/wake cycle. Calcium also works together with magnesium to calm the body and help relax nerves and muscles.
Have a bowl of yoghurt topped with an oat, nut & seed granola rich in magnesium to make for the perfect combination
- Serves: 1
- Serving size: 1
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 3.6 g
- Saturated fat: 0.6 g
- Carbohydrates: 32.6 g
- Sugar: 11.0 g
- Sodium: 0.09 g
- Fiber: 2.9 g
- Protein: 9.3 g
- Oat & Pumpkin Crunch
- 10 g oats
- 5 g pumpkin seeds
- 5 g honey
- ½ banana
- 100 g fat free yoghurt (yeo valley)
- Mix oats and pumpkin seeds
- Stir in honey until well covered
- Spread on baking tray and bake in oven (gas 4, elect 180c, fan 160c) or under the grill until browned
- Slice banana and add to yoghurt
- Top with oat & pumpkin crunch
Also makes a good snack any time of day