Eating banana before bed can improve sleep

When there is constant pressure at home and work, getting a good night’s sleep feels like a far-fetched dream. However, it is only during the night our body gets a chance to revive itself and get prepared to seize the coming day. Yes, we know that some of you follow a nighttime ritual before bed to help induce good sleep. You sip on your aromatic chamomile tea, light up your favourite scented candle, turn on some soothing music, and draw the curtains to create a stress-free environment that is conducive to sleep. However, the quality of your sleep heavily relies on what you eat in the hours before bedtime. The usual rule says that we shouldn’t consume a heavy meal before bedtime, as it can lead to uneasiness and indigestion. But certain foods can calm your brain, promoting a night of healthy sleep. Eating banana before bed can help you sleep better.

Health Shots got in touch with nutritionist Avni Kaul to understand the benefits of having a banana before bedtime. She says eating a banana before bedtime not only satisfies your sweet cravings, but also provides a natural remedy for a restful night.

Why should you eat a banana before bed?

“In an effort for a good night’s sleep, several people turn to various remedies, from herbal teas to soothing music. However, an easy and delicious solution might be sitting right in your fruit bowl – the banana,” says the expert.

Here are some reasons why a banana could be your secret to a good night’s sleep:

1. Banana is a powerhouse of some sleep-inducing nutrients

“Bananas are a powerhouse of nutrients, and one important element contributing to their sleep-inducing magic is the amino acid tryptophan. Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates your mood and promotes relaxation,” says the expert. Moreover, serotonin is converted into melatonin, the hormone accountable for regulating the sleep-wake cycle. By eating bananas, you give your body the necessary building blocks to produce these sleep-promoting chemicals, helping you drift into a peaceful slumber.

2. Banana has muscle-relaxing properties

The fruit also contains magnesium and potassium, essential minerals known for their muscle-relaxing properties. Muscular tension is a common barrier to quality sleep, and the combination of magnesium and potassium in bananas can help ease this tension, promoting a sense of calmness throughout your body.

3. Banana has essential carbohydrates

Bananas are also a good source of carbohydrates. While a high-carbohydrate meal before bed is generally not recommended, the natural sugars in bananas could help regulate blood sugar levels during the night. “The slow release of energy from these sugars prevents blood sugar rise, reducing the likelihood of waking up in the middle of the night due to hunger or discomfort,” says Kaul.

4. A bedtime ritual is always a cure to sleep

The ritual of eating a banana before bedtime can have psychological benefits. Engaging in a calming routine signals to your body that it’s time to wind down, preparing it for a night of restful sleep.