If you’ve ever sipped warm milk before bed or jumped on the “sleepy girl mocktail” craze, you’re not alone. Many of us are on the hunt for the perfect snack or drink to help us drift off. But while the idea of food as a sleep aid is appealing, the science behind it is still catching up.
According to experts, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for better sleep. However, what you eat during the day—and your overall diet—can make a big difference in how well you rest at night. Some foods and drinks have shown promise in early studies, but they’re not magic cures.
So, what might help? Tart cherry juice has gotten some attention. In small studies, adults who drank a serving in the morning and another before bed slept longer and woke up less often. Kiwi is another contender—eating two an hour before bedtime has been linked to better sleep. Other options include snacking on walnuts throughout the day or having a plate of beefsteak tomatoes a couple of hours before bed.
While these findings are intriguing, researchers are still working to understand exactly how these foods affect our sleep. For now, it’s clear that a balanced diet and mindful eating habits are key ingredients for a good night’s rest. So, maybe skip the midnight snacks and try a healthier option—your sleep might thank you!