The health benefits of sleep extend beyond the refreshed feeling that is experienced in the morning. It not only recharges one's energy levels, but also replenishes the major body systems. Sufficient sleep nourishes the immune system and enables it to function at its best. When people sleep, the body repairs itself, building bone, muscle, and other tissues that are needed by the body to function at its best. Improved mental well-being is also one of the health benefits that can be achieved through sufficient sleep. It allows the mind to unwind, regroup, and adjust to the stress and issues that are experienced in daily lives. Sleep is essential in keeping neurotransmitters and chemicals in the brain balanced allowing the body to promote proper well-being.

However many individuals fail to achieve these health benefits because of sleep difficulties that are encountered. Nutritionists and dietitians advise these individuals to head to the kitchen and munch on foods that may relax tense muscles, calm the mind, and promote the production of serotonin and melatonin?hormones that are known to induce sleep.

Here is the list of top foods that may promote sound sleep:

Bananas

This fruit is said to be rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that is converted into melatonin and serotonin. This fruit also contains magnesium, a known muscle relaxant.

Warm milk

A kind of protein naturally found in milk may improve sleep quality and alertness the next day. It contains alpha-lactalbumin which is rich in tryptophan. Milk promotes sound sleep and without the side effects that are often experienced after taking sleep-inducing medications.

Honey

Honey may act as a sedative because the right amount of glucose tells the brain to turn off orexin, a neurotransmitter that is linked to alertness.

Oatmeal

Oats may sooth the digestive and nervous system. The easiest way to improve sleep is consume a serving of oatmeal everyday. But begin with small servings because too much oatmeal may cause gas.

Turkey

This meat is probably the most famous source of tryptophan. However tryptophan works when the stomach is basically empty, and when there are carbohydrates. Two lean slices of turkey on whole wheat bread are perfect sleep inducers.

If these food still does not fix one's sleep they may use over the counter and prescription drugs as treatment for their sleep disorder. But before using them, these individuals are advised to seek the approval of health professionals. They may recommend certain medicines that are required for your health needs.

Rozerem is a sleep aid medication that has gained the approval of countless health professionals across America. This drug does not have a limitation for the duration of its use because it is not considered as a narcotic drug. Again, this is an important distinction since many insomnia drugs are indicated for use during a seven to ten day period only because of the potential for drug dependency. However, the approval of doctors should be sought before taking this drug. This is important to prevent the development of side effects, drug interactions, and other health complications.