Health Tip: Is Your Snack Fueling Drowsiness?

Some foods can trigger sleepiness

(HealthDay News) -- If you're frequently feeling tired, there are some foods that could be contributing to your drowsiness.

The National Sleep Foundation says these foods include:

  • Cherries, which are rich in the hormone melatonin. Enjoy them as a bedtime snack instead of as a daytime treat.
  • Carbohydrates, especially refined carbs such as white bread, cause a spike then drop in blood sugar, which can leave you feeling sleepy.
  • Dark chocolate, which contains the amino acid serotonin, which is involved in the body's sleep-wake cycle.
  • Lean proteins -- such as turkey, chicken, low-fat cheese and fish -- contain the amino acid tryptophan, which boosts levels of serotonin.
  • Magnesium and potassium in bananas can promote muscle relaxation and a drowsy feeling.

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