“Carbohydrates make tryptophan more available to the brain, which is why carbohydrate-heavy meals can make you drowsy,” noted the health body.
Proteins from the food you eat are the “building blocks” of tryptophan, which is why the best bedtime snack is one that contains both a carbohydrate and protein, such as cereal with milk, peanut butter on toast, or cheese and crackers, explains the health site.
Certain herbal teas have also been shown to aid the sleep process, such as chamomile, passionflower, and valerian teas, says the National Sleep Foundation.
“For an extra dose of calm, add a teaspoon of honey, which contains tryptophan,” added the health body.
