Sleep is essential for the health of children and teens. Too little sleep can lead to health problems, including obesity, poor concentration, and depression. Parents and caregivers should keep an eye on their children’s sleep habits and make sure they get the right amount of rest. Of course, some children have difficulty falling asleep, so it’s important to know what foods can help them fall asleep faster. Here are some of the best foods to give kids before bed to help them fall asleep quickly and stay asleep.
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Bananas
Bananas are an excellent source of potassium and magnesium, which are known to help calm the nervous system and encourage a sense of relaxation. Bananas also contain tryptophan, an amino acid which helps the body produce the sleep-inducing hormone melatonin. Eating a banana before bed can help children relax and drift off to sleep faster.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a great pre-bed snack because it is high in carbohydrates and low in fat. This combination helps to release serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter that helps the body relax. Oatmeal is also packed with vitamins and minerals that can help with digestion and relaxation. For an extra sleepy-time boost, add some honey or a few pieces of fruit to the oatmeal.
Yogurt
Yogurt is high in calcium and protein, which can help calm the body and promote sleep. It also contains tryptophan and the sleep-regulating hormone melatonin. To make yogurt even more relaxing, add some honey or fruit to it for an extra dose of sleep-inducing nutrients.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is a natural sleep aid that can help children relax and get ready for sleep. The calming and soothing effects of chamomile tea can help reduce anxiety and stress, which can make it easier for kids to drift off to sleep. For an extra boost, add some honey or a few pieces of fresh fruit to the tea.
Almonds
Almonds are a great snack for kids before bedtime because they contain magnesium and calcium, which can help relax the muscles and promote sleep. Almonds are also a good source of tryptophan, which helps the body produce melatonin. For an extra sleepy-time boost, add a few pieces of dried fruit to the almonds.
Honey
Honey is a natural sleep aid that can help children relax and get ready for sleep. Honey contains antioxidants and amino acids that can help reduce stress and tension, as well as promote relaxation. A teaspoon of honey before bed can help children drift off to sleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Cherries
Cherries are a natural source of melatonin, which is the hormone that helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle. Eating a few cherries before bed can help children relax and drift off to sleep faster. For an extra sleepy-time boost, add a few pieces of dried fruit to the cherries.
Milk
Milk is a great pre-bed snack because it contains calcium and protein, which can help relax the muscles and promote sleep. Milk also contains tryptophan, which helps the body produce melatonin. To make milk even more relaxing, add some honey or a few pieces of fresh fruit to it.
These are some of the best foods to give kids before bed to help them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer. Eating a healthy snack before bed can help relax the body and promote sleep. Parents and caregivers should make sure that their children are getting the right amount of sleep and consider giving them a few of these foods before bedtime.