A good night’s sleep is when your body does much of its healing. What you eat through the day — and in the evening — can support that healing.

A short video on this caught my eye recently, and the foods in it are ordinary, well-known healthy foods. Here they are, in my own words.

1. Salmon
Rich in omega-3 fats, which support the body’s normal inflammatory response. A piece of salmon at dinner is an easy way to get them in.

2. Pineapple
Contains bromelain, a natural enzyme that has been studied for its role in easing swelling.

3. Kefir
A fermented drink, full of probiotics that support gut health — and gut health is closely linked with inflammation.

4. Pomegranate
Rich in polyphenols and antioxidants. A small glass of the juice with your evening meal is plenty.

5. Beets
Rich in nitrates and betalains, which support healthy blood flow. Roasted, grated, or juiced — they all count.

6. Pumpkin seeds
Rich in magnesium and zinc, two minerals that help muscles recover and repair. A small handful in the evening is plenty.

7. Kiwi
A small study found that eating two kiwis before bed helped people fall asleep faster and sleep better — and better sleep means better recovery. (The video cites a figure of 42% better sleep quality from that study.)

How to use this

You do not need to eat all seven at bedtime — and a heavy meal right before bed is not the idea. Work them into your day and your evening meal, and let sleep do the rest.

This is general information only, not medical advice. If you have a health condition, food allergies, or you take medication, check with your doctor before changing what you eat.

— Jeffrey Baldock, MA, MSW, RSW

Framework Counselling, Timmins — 705-406-3430

Inspired by the short video “7 foods that fight inflammation while you sleep” on YouTube: https://youtube.com/shorts/jKebauNC84g