Insomnia diet is recommended for people suffering from insomnia, a condition marked by an individual's inability to sleep. The problem can either be of a greatly disturbed sleep or no sleep at all. Insomnia is, more often than not, viewed as one of the first notable signs of an underlying, greater problem. A person is categorized as an insomniac if he/she has been facing difficulties in sleeping or staying asleep for over a month.
The condition, if left untreated, can turn into a serious medical problem. It is, therefore, important to not ignore symptoms of insomnia so that the condition can be recognized and treated well in time. Generally, the condition is taken care through medication, balanced with a healthy diet and lifestyle. In a few cases, when the case of insomnia seems to be more psychological than physical, counseling sessions are also carried out with the patient. In recent years, the importance of following a proper diet plan in insomnia has greatly been highlighted. Although the diet is custom-made by the doctor and dietitian based on a patient's individual needs, limitations, age, etc., there are some common features.
Main Features of an Insomnia Diet
The key to a proper and balanced diet for insomnia is to choose foods which help promote peaceful sleep instead of those which tend to keep one awake. Some important foods which are almost always a part of a diet plan for insomnia are:
Pumpkin seeds: Very rich in magnesium, pumpkin seeds work towards calming the body and mind by relieving stess. Pumpkin seeds are one of the most magnesium rich foods and their consumption is greatly encouraged.
Milk and milk products: Cottage cheese, tofu, hummus, milk and lentils are foods which are contain tryptophan, a sleep inducing amino acid, in varying degrees. The acid relaxes the body and mind and helps promote sleep. The consumption of these products is, however, regulated as too much of milk and milk products can interfere with insomnia medication.
Sesame seeds: The seeds contain a good balance of trytophan, carbohydrates and protein. This makes these seeds a good insomnia-prevention food.
Spinach: Like pumpkin seeds, spinach is also magnesium-rich and helps calm and relax the body and mind, thereby promoting peaceful sleep.
Foods to be Avoided
When following an insomnia diet, there are a few foods which are strictly advised against. These foods interfere with sleep, medication and also aggravate the symptoms of the condition. Red meats like bacon, which contain tryamine, increase the stimulation of brain and this aggravates insomnia. In addition, beverages like coffee and cola drinks, which are rich in caffeine, also drive away sleep. Other foods which should be avoided are chocolate, foods which are rich in carbohydrates, alcoholic drinks and tea.
References
To know more about what constitutes an insomnia diet and how to keep the condition under control, visit:
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
.jpg)
