DID YOU KNOW?
"Emotional hunger and physical hunger are very different. However, feeding yourself adequately can help to stave off cravings and avoid rushing to the pantry when you are feeling down. Eat proper full meals complete with carbs and protein such as rice and chicken or pasta with beef prevent binge attacks.

• Foods containing tryptophan are needed to make serotonin, the body’s natural ‘feel good’ neurotransmitter. Serotonin makes melatonin, the hormone that regulate sleep. Therefore, eating foods high in tryptophan such as salmon, tofu, eggs, cheese, nuts, seeds and oats can help promote restful sleep.
• Magnesium can help to promote calmness, relaxation and sleep. Foods high in magnesium are spinach, brown rice, oats, multigrain bread, walnuts, almonds, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, beans, lentils, avocado and bananas.
• Foods that are low glycaemic index carbohydrates and are high in fibre help prevent sugar spikes. Sugar spikes reduces sleep quality and quantity. Avoid sugary drinks, desserts and chocolate just before bed. Caffeine and alcohol are best avoided if you are suffering from poor sleep.
• Finishing your meal three hours before bedtime helps prevent acid reflux and it also allows proper digestion of food and absorption of nutrients that promote good sleep."

Jaclyn Reutens
Dietitian
Aptima Nutrition & Sports Consultants