Pregnancy Sleep Troubles? Four Snacks to Help You Snooze

You're in your third trimester of pregnancy, sleep is all you want to do, but you're up at midnight, staring into the refrigerator. Darn cravings! But wait -- before you reach for ice cream or salty snacks, remember that some foods naturally help you get to sleep, while some will just keep you awake. Whether you have them on hand for midnight emergencies or enjoy them an hour or so before bed, these sleep-time snacks will help you fall asleep and stay that way.

• Nuts and legumes contain large amounts of sleep-inducing tryptophan. Grab a handful of almonds, hazelnuts, or peanuts -- yes, peanut butter counts, too!
• Warm, soothing oatmeal contains carbohydrates, which stimulate the release of insulin. Insulin encourages the brain to produce serotonin and melatonin, two neurotransmitters that trigger sleep.
• Dairy products are some of the most effective pregnancy sleep foods. They contain tryptophan, protein, and complex carbs that work together to help the brain quiet down. Try warm milk, cottage cheese, or yogurt.
• Hummus contains helpful tryptophan. When paired with whole-wheat pita slices, it's a perfect before-bedtime choice.

Whatever you do, avoid simple sugars and protein-heavy foods, which can cause blood sugar to spike, and very spicy foods, which could aggravate heartburn. You don't need more pregnancy sleep problems to solve!