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By Heide Kennedy, Arizona Farm Bureau Communications Intern

We all know how important getting a good night’s sleep is. From repairing your body’s cells from use during the day to energizing us for the next day’s activities, to reducing stress, good sleep does a lot for our bodies. Besides sticking to a regular sleep schedule and getting a full 8 hours of sleep, there are actually certain kinds of food that aid in making sleeping soundly at night much easier.

According to Registered dietician Kristin Kirkpatrick, consuming foods that help to calm the body and increase your serotonin levels. The Mayo Clinic notes that research shows that diets that are high in fiber and low in saturated fats and simple carbohydrates promote more sound sleep. With that being said, there are 6 key food options that can contribute to a better night’s sleep.

1. Complex carbohydrates
2. Lean proteins
3. Healthy fats
4. High magnesium foods
5. Soothing beverages, such as herbal teas.
6. Fresh herbs

Incorporating some of these into your evening meal or pre-bedtime snack can help to promote a more restful night, which in turn promotes overall health.

For more articles about sleep, check out this collection from the Fill Your Plate blog!