If you find yourself tossing and turning at night, your answer could lie in a simple piece of fruit. A viral TikTok video has sparked interest after claiming one uncommon bedtime snack may help you fall asleep faster and for longer. WellX, which has nearly 95,000 followers and more than 780,000 likes on the platform, has revealed the surprising health benefits of kiwis.
In the video, the wellbeing experts claim: « If you eat kiwi before bed it can boost serotonin and help you fall asleep faster and sleep deeper ». Seretonin, according to the Sleep Foundation, is the chemical in the brain that regulates mood and sleep cycles.
This claim is backed up by experts with a study published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition finding that adults who ate two kiwis before bed fell asleep faster and experienced improved sleep quality.
Participants were said to have fallen asleep 42 per cent quicker, and had longer sleep time. The Sleep Foundation adds the fruit contains high levels of antioxidants and serotonin, both of which support sleep. You can pick up the fruit in many high street shops, with Tesco selling a multi-pack of 6 for £1.19p or roughly 20p per fruit.
The charity also explains that foods rich in these compounds can help regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle. But experts do say it’s not a magic fix.
According to the NHS, while diet can influence sleep, good sleep hygiene – such as limiting screen time and sticking to a regular bedtime – remains essential.
Kiwis also come with a range of broader health benefits. According to the British Nutrition Foundation, the fruit is rich in vitamin C, fibre and potassium, all of which support immune health and digestion.
More generally, research from Harvard Health suggests that diets high in fruit and vegetables are linked to improved overall health and may indirectly support better sleep patterns.
Nutrient-rich foods can help regulate hormones and reduce inflammation, both of which play a role in sleep quality.
Still, not all experts agree on the strength of the evidence. The Sleep Foundation notes that while early studies on kiwis are promising, more large-scale research is needed to confirm their direct impact on sleep.
For now, adding a kiwi to your evening routine could be a simple and healthy habit to try. While it may not be a cure-all, it’s a low-risk option that could help you drift off that little bit easier.
Source link
