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According to the National Sleep Foundation, changes in sleep patterns are a part of the aging process. But that does not mean men and women over 50 cannot take steps to improve their sleeping patterns.
For example, certain snack foods may help to improve quality of sleep, especially when these foods replace less healthy snacking options:
• Almonds: Magnesium is a mineral with muscle-relaxing properties, and almonds contain enough magnesium to help men and women get a better night’s sleep. A small amount of almonds before bed might be enough to make falling and staying asleep easier.
• Bananas: Much like almonds, bananas provide a substantial amount of magnesium. Bananas also contain the amino acid tryptophan, so a banana shortly before bed might be just what you need to fall and stay asleep.
• Cheese and crackers: Cheese and crackers contain tryptophan and carbohydrates, which can induce a better night’s sleep and help you fall asleep sooner.
• Hummus: The primary ingredient in hummus is chickpeas, which are loaded with tryptophan, folate and vitamin B6. Folate has proven especially beneficial to older men and women who need help regulating their sleep patterns, while vitamin B6 helps the body regulate its clock.
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