If nature gives you a problem it usually provides you with the answer as well. If sleep deprivation is your problem then these natural remedies could be your answer.

Milk

This is usually grandma’s remedy for sleeping problems. The sleep inducing properties of milk have been scientifically proven. Milk contains tryptophan and amino acids that act as mild sedatives. A cup of warm milk takes you back to your childhood when warm milk was associated with sleep.

Honey

Adding a drop of honey to your milk can make it even more effective. The glucose in the honey tells your brain to stop making orexin, the hormone that keeps you alert.

Herbal tea

If you don’t like the taste of milk you can try herbal tea. Chamomile tea in particular cures restlessness and has a sedative effect. You could also try passionflower tea, St Johns wart or lime blossom tea, which are known for their sleep inducing effects.

Turkey

Have you ever wondered why everyone nods off on the couch after Thanks Giving dinner? It’s because of the tryptophan and serotonin in the turkey. Try having a turkey sandwich with whole meal bread for dinner. Whole meal bread also helps your body get ready for bed.

Potatoes

Have a small serving of mashed or roasted potatoes for dinner. Potatoes help the body flush out amino acids and prepare for sleep.

Bananas

Don’t feel like having a heavy dinner? Have a banana instead. This is a super sleep food. Bananas contain serotonin, tryptophan and magnesium that help your body ease into sleep.

Almonds

Keep some by your bedside and pop some in your mouth if you have trouble falling asleep. The magnesium in almonds acts as a muscle relaxant.

Oats

If you haven’t considered oats as a dinner option, you should. Oats act as an antidepressant and nerve tonic. It helps you combat stress and relax. You could also put some oats in your both. It is not only an excellent exfoliator but also has a tranquilizing effect.

Mix and match

You could mix and match this great sleep food to suit your tastes. Have a turkey sandwich with chamomile tea and honey. If not, try turkey cutlets with mashed potatoes. Make a banana split with almonds and drizzle some honey on top. Make porridge with oats and milk and sweeten it with bananas and honey. Don’t forget to wash it al l down with a glass of lukewarm water. This tasty food will help your body unwind and float into sleep. Eat right and sleep tight.