Surprising food is the 'key' to a good night's sleep for older adults

Experts reveal there is a nutrient that can help older adults sleep better.

Trying to fall asleep or tossing and turning all night is a nightmare for many older people. Experts suggest a surprising nutrient could be the key to overcoming fatigue and getting a better night’s sleep. The mineral is found in foods such as green leafy vegetables, nuts, whole grains and legumes, according to the Express .

Sleep plays an important role in the health of the elderly.

Photo: AI

Dr. Inés Moreno Sánchez, from Hospital Universitario Clínico San Cecilio, University of Granadachia (Spain) shares: Do you have trouble falling asleep or wake up still feeling drowsy even after 8 hours of sleep? Magnesium deficiency could be the key!

This essential mineral helps relax muscles, reduce stress, and promote deep sleep. Prioritize foods rich in magnesium to restore energy and get the rest you need.

What role does magnesium play in sleep in the elderly?

Dr Sánchez isn’t the only one who recognises the importance of magnesium. Dr Rosey Davidson, the UK’s number one sleep expert, also says that magnesium can play a key role in sleep.

Many studies strongly support the role of magnesium in sleep in older adults, Dr. Sánchez emphasizes. This is mainly because this nutrient helps activate the parasympathetic nervous system, thereby enhancing relaxation.

Magnesium also aids in the production of melatonin, the sleep hormone. It also binds to GABA receptors in the brain, which has a calming effect, making it easier to fall asleep.

Foods rich in magnesium include: Green leafy vegetables such as spinach, lettuce...

Photo: AI

What foods contain magnesium?

Dr. Rosey recommends that older adults incorporate magnesium into their diets for improved sleep and better health.

Foods rich in magnesium include green leafy vegetables (spinach, lettuce), nuts (almonds, pumpkin seeds), whole grains (brown rice, quinoa), legumes (black beans, chickpeas), dark chocolate, fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), bananas and avocados, says Dr Rosey. Magnesium supplements can also be taken, but it's best to get it through your diet, according to Express.

Additionally, this sleep expert says calcium, vitamin D and zinc can also help improve sleep quality.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/mon-an-dang-ngac-nhien-la-chia-khoa-de-nguoi-lon-tuoi-ngon-giac-185250611113233382.htm