Brain Food

The delicate transistion from the state of wakefulness to that of sleep takes place in our brain.  Think of it as an engne, needing fuel to function properly.  Carbohydrates supply thsi vital fuel.  The food we eat supplies the necessary nutrients in two forms: sugars (from sugar, honey and fruit) and cereals (pasta, rice and bread).  The former are absorbed rapidly by the body which burns them on the spot.  The latter are metabolized more slowly and supply our brain with fuel for longer.

Good and Bad Sugars

The brain consumes a large number of carbohydrates responsible for supplying it with energy, along with the rest of the body.  The brain also manufactures a neuro-hormone vital to the funciton of sleep.  This is known as serotonin and it has a calming, relaxing effect on us.  A lack of serotonin in the brain will make it hard for us to switch the 'thinking engine' off.  Another vital element provided by protein containing carbohydrates, such as cereals, is tryptophan, an amino acid that acts as a natural tranquillizer.

It is better to focus on cereals and limit the number of sugars you consume, in particular refined sugars such as white sugar, pastries, biscuits and sweets.  Ideally, you should eat cereals in the evening in order to supply your brain with a supply on which to draw during the night.  You can replenish the stock at breakfast the following morning.

We all have our own individual sleep patterns and habits, our good times and bad times.  General rules and guidelines have been established through research by sleep specialists. However, each individual has his or her own peculiarities.  You must understand your own before you can improve and maintain the quality of your skeep.

Writing It Down

Equip yourself with a notebook and pen and always keep them by your bed.  Make a meticulous note of every detail of your sleeping habits for at least a week or, better still, two weeks: when you want to go to bed in the evening, what you dream about, which nights you sleep well, how you feel when you wake up.  Gradually you will be able to draw up your own sleep profile.  The information will help you choose the best ways to improve your sleep and the best times to take action.

Beating Insomia – Did you know…

1.  You should try to sleep for eight hours each night.  The most beneficial hours of sleep occur before midnight.  A heavy meal can disturb your sleep.

2.  There are no set rules about sleep.  What disrupts one person's sleep could encourage another's/

3.  The most important thing is to wake up full of energy whether you went to bed early or late, slept for several hours or just a few, on a full or empty stomach.