Whether a baby can sleep well at night is highly dependent on what they eat in the evening. Clinical nutritionists point out that one of the causes of sleep disorders is eating certain "unsuitable" foods at dinner. So, what exactly should a baby eat at night to promote better sleep?
Milk: Milk contains two hypnotic substances. One is tryptophan, which promotes the secretion of a sleep-inducing neurotransmitter, serotonin, from brain nerve cells. The other is a peptide that regulates physiological functions, among which "opioid-like peptides" can bind with the central nervous system, exerting a narcotic and analgesic effect similar to opium, making a person feel comfortable all over, which helps relieve fatigue and fall asleep. For people with neurasthenia caused by physical weakness, the sedative effect of milk is even more significant.
Millet: Of all grains, millet is the richest in tryptophan. In addition, millet contains a large amount of starch, which easily creates a feeling of fullness after consumption and can promote insulin secretion, increasing the amount of tryptophan that enters the brain.
Walnuts: Clinically, walnuts have been proven to improve sleep quality and are therefore often used to treat symptoms such as neurasthenia, insomnia, forgetfulness, and excessive dreaming. The specific method is to mix them with black sesame seeds, pound them into a paste, and take 15 grams before bedtime for a very noticeable effect.
Sunflower Seeds: Sunflower seeds contain various amino acids and vitamins that can regulate metabolism and improve the inhibitory function of brain cells, playing a sedative and calming role. Eating some sunflower seeds after dinner can also promote the secretion of digestive juices, which helps with digestion and aids sleep.
Jujubes: Jujubes are rich in nutrients such as protein, vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, and iron, and have the effect of tonifying the spleen and calming the mind. Drinking soup made with jujubes after dinner can help you fall asleep faster.
Honey: Traditional Chinese medicine believes that honey has the effects of tonifying the middle and replenishing qi, calming the five organs, and harmonizing with various medicines. To sleep well, drinking a glass of warm honey water before bed can be helpful.
Vinegar: Vinegar contains various amino acids and organic acids, which have a very obvious effect of eliminating fatigue and can also help with sleep.
Whole Wheat Bread: Whole wheat bread is rich in vitamin B, which helps maintain the health of the nervous system, alleviate restlessness, and promote sleep.