Foods that help sleep better(Source:The Times of India,8th May 2011)

The meal you choose tonight could mean the difference between counting sheep and getting some serious shut-eye. So order the salmon.

There are certain nutrients in salmon, as well as in beans, yogurt, and spinach that help you sleep better.

Salmon
The healthy fats in this fish (namely docosahexaenoic acid, or DHA for short) may boost levels of the sleep-regulating hormone melatonin.

Beans
Beans and other legumes provide a nice sampling of B vitamins, including B6, B12, and folic acid, all of which help the body regulate sleep cycles and produce relaxing serotonin. In fact, studies have shown that boosting B vitamins may help people with insomnia.

Low-fat yogurt
Yogurt is a good source of calcium and magnesium – two important sleep-supporting minerals that together help you fall asleep faster and ratchet up your deep-sleep time. And skimping on both may lead to muscle cramps, higher stress levels, and worse sleep.

Spinach
Dark leafy greens are a great source of iron – a nutrient that may help protect against the sleep robber known as restless legs syndrome.