Your diet plays a crucial role in every area of your health—and that includes your heart health, as well as your ability to get a good night’s sleep. Luckily, there are plenty of foods that can help in these areas, including two fruits that could help you kill two birds with one stone.
According to dietitian Jesse Feder, cherries and bananas could promote a healthier heart and better sleep habits. Thanks to the nutrients offered by these fruits, eating them regularly could take you a few steps closer to your health goals. Read on for all of Feder’s expert insight on the specific benefits of each.
1. Cherries
Cherries, with their rich red hue and delicious sweet-tart flavor, offer more than just great flavor; they pack a punch of nutritional goodness. Feder highlights cherries as a natural source of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles. "Cherries are a good source of natural melatonin which is known to promote restful sleep," he points out. By incorporating cherries into your evening routine, whether as a bedtime snack or as part of a dessert, you may find yourself drifting off into a deeper, more restorative slumber.
But the benefits of cherries extend beyond sleep promotion. Feder underscores their role as a potent source of antioxidants, compounds that combat inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. "Antioxidants are great for reducing or fighting off inflammation, which can be beneficial for heart health," Feder explains. Furthermore, cherries boast a notable fiber content, which aids in digestion and weight management. "The fiber content is also great at promoting healthy body weight and digestion which is also beneficial for our heart," Feder adds.
2. Bananas
Bananas have long been praised by experts for their nutritional value. Feder highlights two key minerals found in bananas: magnesium and potassium. "Bananas are a great source of magnesium and potassium, both of which can help lower blood pressure and relax muscles," he points out. Incorporating bananas into your evening routine may help calm your body and prepare it for a peaceful night's rest.
In addition to their sleep-promoting properties, bananas offer substantial benefits for heart health. Feder emphasizes the role of potassium in regulating blood pressure, a vital aspect of cardiovascular wellness. "The potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, can help promote heart health as well," Feder notes. Furthermore, like cherries, bananas are a rich source of dietary fiber, which supports digestive health and weight management. "The fiber content is also great at promoting healthy body weight and digestion which is also beneficial for our heart," Feder concludes. Perfect!
Bottom line
Of course, living the healthiest life possible is about more than adding two simple fruits to your diet. However, incorporating cherries and bananas into your daily diet offers a simple yet effective way to support heart health and enhance sleep quality. Whether enjoyed on their own, blended into smoothies, or added to oatmeal or yogurt, these fruits offer a delicious and nutritious way to nourish your body and promote overall wellness. By harnessing the natural benefits of cherries and bananas, you can take proactive steps towards a healthier heart and a more restful night's sleep.
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