The beginning of the year means that many of us have set out to improve our habits. And next to eating healthier, getting more sleep is at the top of the list here at Cool Mom HQ and in the parent community at large. Well, it turns out that you can bring the two together by eating more foods for better sleep.
I’ve rounded up five easy-to-make snacks that come packed with nutrients that are said to help our bodies fall asleep and stay asleep. And they’re all kid-friendly, of course, because mom getting more sleep is only possible if the kids are sleeping too. Amirite?
Chamomile Popsicles | Sheri Silver
Related: 8 unexpected foods that may help you get a better night’s sleep.
This Cherry Pecan Granola at Through Her Looking Glass comes loaded with complex carbs, cherries, and nuts, three foods that help provide the nutrients your body needs to fall asleep naturally. With a recipe like this, it’s less important when you eat it; just make sure you’re getting enough of the good stuff.
That said, if you want to enjoy this as an evening snack or as a substitute for dessert (kids willing!), feel free. It’s so low in sugar that kids can even eat it right before bedtime.
People have relied on chamomile to hasten sleep and calm frayed nerves for generations, and it’s certainly been a lifesaver for me. That said, it’s not always the most kid-friendly taste. If your kids agree, instead of pushing hot tea, try these lightly-sweetened Chamomile Popsicles at Sheri Silver, which the kids will love no matter what time of year.
Turmeric Milk Latte | The Green Creator
As I mentioned in our round-up of foods that promote sleep, sufficient levels of calcium can help your body generate melatonin, an important hormone that helps you drift off. That means that incorporating calcium-rich foods throughout the day will help you sleep better when it’s time for bed.
Still, it’s not a bad idea to add a soothing warm drink like the Turmeric Milk Latte that Kate found at The Green Creator while doing research on how to make golden milk, a great sleepy time drink. If you use almond milk to make your golden milk, make sure it’s calcium-enriched to ensure the best night’s sleep possible.
Related: 5 food that help boost your immune system.
I like to have a bowl of popcorn in the evening, especially if there’s a Netflix show on the agenda, but lately I’ve switched to roasted chickpeas since they have so much more going for them nutritionally speaking. Plus, they’re a source of tryptophan, the stuff in turkey that makes you want to take a nap after Thanksgiving. I think these simple Crunchy Salted Roasted Chickpeas at The Beader Chef could be the perfect popcorn replacement, but feel free to add your own spices too. Or try anyone of these creative roasted chickpea recipes.
Baked oatmeal is one of my favorite make-ahead breakfasts, but since complex carbs also help produce sleep-inducing tryptophan, it’s a good idea to sneak them in at bedtime too. Plus, you can sweeten baked oatmeal with bananas, which help prevent restless leg syndrome and generate melatonin. I think the kids will be happy to add these Baked Banana Oatmeal Cups to their post-dinner snack rotation. Thanks, Kim’s Cravings!
