Sleepytime Chamomile Banana Smoothie

November 08, 2024

If you are hungry after dinner but want to be sure you are snacking on something that will be beneficial in helping you fall asleep, look no further than this Sleepytime Chamomile Banana Smoothie. 

Why These Ingredients Help:

• Bananas: High in potassium and magnesium, which help to relax muscles and calm the nervous system.
• Chamomile: Known for its mild sedative effect, chamomile can help to reduce anxiety and induce sleep.
• Cinnamon: Not only does it have a warming, comforting flavor, but it can help to stabilize blood sugar, preventing any late-night blood sugar crashes.
• Chia Seeds: High in magnesium, which is known for its relaxing properties. Magnesium helps the body relax and can improve sleep quality.
• Honey: A small amount of honey can promote relaxation by raising insulin slightly, allowing tryptophan to enter the brain more easily, where it can be converted into serotonin and melatonin.

Sleepytime Chamomile Banana Smoothie

Ingredients:

• 1 ripe banana (rich in magnesium and potassium)
• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (a soothing, calming spice)
• 1 teaspoon honey (a natural sweetener that can help increase the availability of tryptophan)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds (high in magnesium and omega-3s)
• 1/2 teaspoon chamomile powder (or 1 chamomile tea bag for steeping) – known for its calming, sleep-inducing properties
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon turmeric (for its anti-inflammatory benefits and to promote relaxation)
• Ice cubes or frozen banana slices for a cold smoothie (optional)

Instructions:

1. Steep the Chamomile: If using chamomile tea, steep a chamomile tea bag in 1/2 cup hot water for about 5 minutes. If you have chamomile powder, you can add it directly to the blender with the rest of the ingredients.

2. Blend: In a blender, add the ripe banana, almond milk, steeped chamomile tea (or chamomile powder), cinnamon, honey, chia seeds, and turmeric (if using). Blend until smooth and creamy.

3. Serve and Enjoy: Pour the smoothie into a glass and enjoy this relaxing, sleep-friendly drink about 30 minutes before bed.

 

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