Eating More Fruits and Vegetables May Improve Your Sleep Quality
A groundbreaking study reveals that increasing daily intake of fruits and vegetables can lead to better, more restful sleep. Learn how dietary changes may enhance sleep quality and overall health.
Good sleep is essential for overall health, yet many people struggle with sleep disturbances. A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Chicago Medicine and Columbia University highlights a simple, natural strategy to enhance sleep quality: increasing your daily intake of fruits and vegetables. Published in the journal Sleep Health, the research suggests that consuming more plant-based foods during the day is linked to deeper, less interrupted sleep at night.
The study involved healthy young adults who tracked their daily food consumption using an app and wore wrist monitors to measure their sleep patterns objectively. One key metric examined was "sleep fragmentation," which indicates how often someone wakes up or shifts from deep to lighter sleep stages throughout the night.
Findings revealed that days rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy carbohydrates like whole grains positively influenced the subsequent night's sleep. Participants who increased their intake of these foods experienced more restful sleep, with fewer disruptions. Statistically, the researchers estimate that eating five cups of fruits and vegetables—a guideline recommended by health authorities—could lead to a 16% improvement in sleep quality compared to consuming no produce.
"It's remarkable that such a significant difference can occur within less than 24 hours," said co-senior author Dr. Esra Tasali. While further studies are needed to establish causality and understand the underlying biological mechanisms, current evidence supports the idea that a diet rich in complex carbs, fruits, and vegetables benefits sleep health over the long term.
Sleep health expert Dr. Marie-Pierre St-Onge emphasized the practical implications: "Small dietary changes can impact sleep quality. Better rest is within your control." The research underscores the importance of nutritional choices not only for physical health but also for improving sleep quality, which can influence mood, cognitive function, and overall well-being.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-06-fruits-veggies.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
Eating Mediterranean and Plant-Based Diets May Lower Constipation Risk with Age
Discover how Mediterranean and plant-based diets can help reduce the risk of constipation as you age. Learn expert tips for maintaining gut health and promoting regular bowel movements.
Dietary Changes May Help Reduce Lymphedema Symptoms
New research indicates that adopting a low-saturated-fat diet may help manage and reduce the severity of lymphedema, a condition characterized by painful limb swelling due to lymphatic fluid buildup.
Proinflammatory Diets Accelerate Gum Disease Progression and Increase Systemic Inflammation
New research reveals that proinflammatory diets can accelerate gum disease progression and contribute to increased systemic inflammation, highlighting the importance of dietary choices for oral and overall health.
Helping Your Kids Transition to a Healthier and More Varied Diet
Discover effective strategies to help children move away from processed foods towards a healthier and more varied diet, boosting their growth and overall health.