An All-Natural, Simple and Delicious Sleep Aid

 

Author: Renata Richardson Sleep seems to be a topic that comes up often in the media and in conversations between friends and colleagues - being tired but yet wide awake and can't fall asleep, waking up and not being able to fall back asleep easily, mind filled with all kinds of busy thoughts that pushes sleep away even more, being tired during the day because of the night before's lack of sleep... A restful night's sleep is one of the main keys of good health so finding natural ways to try to get into a better bedtime and sleep routine is important.    Many articles have been written about the key things to do and some not do before bed, such as, establishing a nightly bedtime routine by turning off electronic devices at least a half hour before bed and not having them overnight on your nightstand, taking a warm bath or shower before bed, quiet meditation, reading a physical book, not an ebook, turning off the light and making the bedroom dark and cool, are just a few.  Here is another to add to the list! Did you know that bananas with cinnamon contain nutrients that support relaxation and sleep?  Bananas contain vitamin B6 and tryptophan (yes, the same as in turkey that contributes to the post-meal sleepiness!) both which boost melatonin levels that supports regulating sleep, potassium that supports healthy lower blood pressure and magnesium that relaxes muscles and helps you drift off, all which support a more restful sleep.  Cinnamon is a powerful antioxidant, an anti-inflammatory, an antibacterial and an anti-fungal. It can reduce bad cholesterol (LCL) and triglycerides, balances blood sugar and research is being done to show that cinnamon can relieve insomnia, supports brain health and reduces cognition decline.  So, if you sense you might have a restless night, something as simple as eating a peeled sliced banana sprinkled with cinnamon before you get ready for bed could help. A dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey makes it extra delicious with added valuable, healthful nutrients.  You can also boil a washed cut up banana, peel and all, strain and drink the steeped brew, or even just boil the washed peel itself. I prefer the sliced banana with cinnamon myself. Such a simple, all-natural, nutritious and delicious sleep aid.