What is the role of nutritional epidemiology in understanding sleep and diet?
This discussion will explore the field of nutrition epidemiology, and the potential link that it could have between sleep and our eating habits. The reader can expect to learn why nutritional epidemiology is so important, as well as how to begin understanding it. Practical examples will also be provided to demonstrate the link between sleep and diet. We will also offer some additional suggestions and tips that you may find useful.
It is important to understand the relationship between diet and sleep quality
It is important to understand the relationship between sleep and diet for many reasons. Poor sleep has been associated with obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Marie-Pierre St-Onge, a researcher at Columbia University’s Institute of Human Nutrition, says that short sleep periods can lead to obesity and other health issues due to hormonal changes.
Certain foods and beverages can also affect sleeping patterns. Caffeine and alcohol, for example, have both been shown to disturb sleep patterns. Some nutrients, on the other hand may promote better sleep. Magnesium is found in almonds, spinach and other foods. According to a study in the Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, magnesium supplements could help improve symptoms of insomnia.
Get Started With Nutritional Epidemiology
Start by examining your personal dietary and sleeping habits. Note any changes to your sleep patterns and keep a food journal. Take note of the latest research on this topic. A study conducted by the University of Pennsylvania showed that diets high in sugar and saturated fats and low in fiber are linked to a lighter and less restorative type of sleep.
Diet and Sleep Quality Relationship Examples
- A study published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that fatty fish such as salmon can improve sleep. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fats and vitamin D.
- Almonds, as mentioned above, are high in magnesium and can help with insomnia.
- Milk: It contains tryptophan which is an amino acid. This converts to serotonin then melatonin.
- The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a study that found foods with a high glycemic index (GI), such as jasmine, could help you fall asleep faster.
- Bananas: They contain potassium and magnesium, which are both muscle relaxants. This could improve sleep quality.
Other Tips
Other lifestyle choices, aside from diet and nutrition, can impact the quality of sleep. Exercise can improve sleep. Reduce screen time prior to bedtime, since the screens' light can disrupt your natural cycle of sleep and wakefulness. Consider stress-management techniques like yoga or meditation as well, since high levels of stress can affect sleep quality.
Conclusion
The nutritional epidemiology is a useful tool for understanding the relationship between sleep and diet. The study highlights how diet is a major factor in not only our health, but also our sleeping patterns. We can improve the quality of our sleep and well-being by paying attention to how we eat.
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