The best and worst foods to eat before bed

What to Pick—and How Much

“To help prepare you for sleep, it is best to avoid eating large meals in the hours leading up to bedtime,” Redmond says. “If you have to eat a late dinner, keep the portions a bit smaller than usual.” If you’re snacking, try putting your food in a bowl, instead of eating it straight out of the package, which can be dangerous territory especially if you’re zoned out in front of the TV.

Redmond suggests these snacks to promote a healthful, rested night of sleep:
• Low-fat milk and whole grain cereal
• Natural peanut butter on whole wheat bread
• Yogurt with half a banana and/or one tablespoon of chopped walnuts
• Two cups plain popcorn with a drizzle of olive oil