Health Benefits of Milk for Better Sleep
In the fast-paced world of sports and athletics, the importance of a good night's sleep cannot be overstated. Quality sleep is essential for muscle recovery, cognitive function, and overall performance. What if I told you that a simple glass of real dairy milk could be your secret weapon for achieving better sleep? Not only does milk contain essential nutrients that aid in restful sleep, but it can also help improve sleep quality and latency. In this article, we will explore how milk supports sleep and strategies to enhance your recovery!
Health Benefits of Milk: It’s Sleep-Boosting Nutrients in Milk
Milk is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with several key nutrients known to promote restful sleep and meet your fueling needs as an athlete!
1. Protein: Milk is a source of 8 grams of high-quality protein per serving, which can help regulate blood sugar levels throughout the night, preventing unwanted awakenings due to fluctuations in glucose. It can also help repair and rebuild muscle!
2. Tryptophan: You may have heard that turkey makes you sleepy due to its tryptophan content, and milk contains this amino acid as well. Tryptophan is a precursor to serotonin and melatonin, two hormones that play a crucial role in sleep regulation.
3. Magnesium: Milk contains magnesium, which helps relax muscles and reduce stress, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
4. Calcium: Calcium is essential for the proper functioning of the nervous system and it promotes the release of melatonin. Milk is an excellent source of calcium that can aid in the body's natural sleep-wake cycle.
5. Vitamin B6: This vitamin is involved in the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin, further enhancing its sleep-inducing effects.
6. Vitamin D: Vitamin D plays a role in regulating sleep patterns. Milk is often fortified with vitamin D, making it even more beneficial for sleep and building strong bones.
Below are some of my favorite recipes that you can incorporate throughout your meals and snacks to ensure you get your three servings of dairy and maximize the benefits it has on sleep as you get closer to bedtime!
Strawberry smoothie
Cottage cheese mixed with dried cherries and cinnamon graham cracker crumbles!
Sharp cheddar cheese and whole grain crackers
Greek yogurt parfait
BlueBerry pancakes (lactose-free)
NSF Certified Whey Protein Powder mixed in a shaker bottle with milk
Milk can be a valuable addition to your sleep routine, thanks to its rich nutrient profile that supports restful sleep. By incorporating milk into your evening routine and following good sleep hygiene practices, you can unlock the full potential of a good night's sleep, enhancing your athletic performance and overall well-being. Sweet dreams!
Shawn Pitcher is an Atlanta-based registered and licensed dietitian with a Masters in Human Performance & Recreation and a Bachelor's in Dietetics & Nutrition. He was formerly a Division Three football player. Shawn has experience working with athletes ranging from high school to the pros. He is originally from upstate New York from a small town called Endicott. His passion is to live, learn, and pass on his knowledge and tools to athletes to allow them to build the appropriate habits to make them successful in athletics.
Ways to contact Shawn:
Instagram: Shawn_rdatl
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