Every parent is looking for the secret elixir to get their child to consistently go to sleep. White noise machine? Total blackout curtains? Baby massage? Driving in the car? Two hour stroller ride? Not making eye contact for a half hour before bed? The list of things we’ve tried (and failed with) is endless. I’ve got some good news, research suggests that diet plays a crucial role in our sleep cycles. This is especially true for new eaters like babies.
Certain foods contain sleep-inducing properties that can help your baby feel sleepy and comfortable after eating--helping them sleep sooner and for longer. Here’s a list of nutrient dense baby-friendly foods containing these chemicals.
- Tryptophan: An amino acid associated with sleep.
Foods: Banana, oats, peanuts, whole milk, turkey and canned tuna.
- Magnesium: A mineral that reduces inflammation and cortisol levels, a stress-hormone that can disrupt sleep.
Foods: Swiss chard, spinach, acorn squash, avocado and buckwheat.
- Melatonin: A hormone that helps guide our sleep cycle and circadian rhythm.
Foods: Tart cherry, goji berry, eggs, salmon, whole milk, pistachios and almonds.
- Apigenin: An antioxidant that binds to certain brain receptors to promote sleepiness and reduce insomnia.
Foods: Artichoke, celery, parsley and chamomile.
When it comes to creating meals that support your little one, both awake and asleep, we’ve got your back. Look out for our blends that feature these sleep inducing foods and try them out before nap time or bedtime.