Sleep Research Links 5 Daily Produce Servings to Better Rest, St-Onge Says
Updated
Updated · The Washington Post · Jul 9
Sleep Research Links 5 Daily Produce Servings to Better Rest, St-Onge Says
3 articles · Updated · The Washington Post · Jul 9
Summary
Five daily servings of fruits and vegetables cut sleep fragmentation in young healthy adults, Marie-Pierre St-Onge said, adding that Mediterranean- and DASH-style eating patterns are also tied to less insomnia and better sleep efficiency.
Her research points to fiber-rich foods boosting deep sleep, while saturated fat reduces it and refined carbohydrates and sugary drinks increase nighttime arousals and disruptions.
St-Onge’s own routine mirrors that evidence: high-fiber cereal with half a banana at breakfast, sourdough with nuts, Greek yogurt and fruit at lunch, and dinners built around salmon, shrimp, chicken, legumes or tofu plus vegetables.
She also keeps dinner at least 3 hours before bed and follows roughly a 10:15 p.m. to 6:15 a.m. sleep schedule, arguing that consistent meal and sleep timing supports circadian rhythms and metabolic health.