Can't fall asleep? Doctors name unexpected foods that may help

Doctors told Fox News Digital that several less obvious foods — including kiwis, pumpkin seeds, chickpeas, barley, oily fish and chamomile — contain nutrients linked to improved sleep, and research notes diet can influence sleep for many Americans.

Many Americans experience sleep difficulties, with the National Institutes of Health reporting up to 70 million people affected and about one in three adults struggling with sleep. Research and expert comments reported by Fox News Digital note that diet can influence sleep. Medical doctor William W. Li and naturopath Michelle Sands discussed several foods that are less commonly linked to sleep support. The article outlines nutrients and compounds in those foods that experts said may affect sleep-related systems. Key findings: - Kiwis: Dr. William W. Li said kiwis can increase total sleep time and reduce sleep latency, and he mentioned eating two kiwis about an hour before bedtime as a reported approach. - Pumpkin seeds: Michelle Sands said pumpkin seeds are rich in magnesium and zinc, which she described as important for nervous system regulation and hormone balance. - Chickpeas and lentils: Sands said these legumes help stabilize blood sugar, are high in vitamin B6, and support progesterone production, which she linked to more stable sleep. - Barley: Li said barley contains beta-D-glucan, a soluble fiber fermented by gut bacteria into short-chain fatty acids such as butyrate, which he said can stimulate the vagus nerve and reduce inflammation. - Oily fish: Li noted that mackerel, sardines and salmon provide omega-3 fatty acids, which he said may reduce brain inflammation associated with sleep disruption. - Chamomile: Li pointed out that chamomile contains the polyphenol apigenin, which can act on GABA receptors when consumed as an herbal tea and is reported to promote a calmer brain state. Summary: Many Americans experience sleep problems and experts told Fox News Digital that a range of foods contain nutrients linked to sleep-supporting processes. The article highlights kiwis, pumpkin seeds, legumes, barley, oily fish and chamomile for their different nutrients and compounds. Undetermined at this time.