The Top Mediterranean Foods for Better Sleep, According to a Sleep Specialist

Fruit is also important with dried figs, avocados and bananas helping provide the magnesium that we need to promote healthy sleep.

Veggies and fruit

If you're not a fan of beans, consider other legume sources such as alfalfa, peas, carob, soy, and peanuts that still provide the B-vitamin boost needed to boost serotonin and promote healthy sleep.

Legume

These whole, minimally processed grains, are typically high in fiber, have a low glycemic index and help regulate blood-glucose levels—all associated with promoting healthy sleep.

Whole grain

In addition, walnuts are one of the best plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids—another key component in promoting healthy sleep.

Nuts and seed

Fatty fish are some of the best sources of two of the most important omega-3 fatty acids, DHA and EPA; and they are an excellent source of tryptophan. 

Fatty fish

While there is still much research to be done on the specific ways the Mediterranean diet impacts sleep, studies show that people who adhere to the Mediterranean diet have better sleep quality than those who don't.

The Bottom Line