What foods help you fall asleep faster at night?

Foods that contain tryptophan, melatonin, or magnesium tend to promote sleep. Turkey, warm milk, and almonds are classic choices because tryptophan helps produce serotonin and melatonin. Tart cherries and kiwi fruit are particularly well-studied, with research showing they can reduce time to fall asleep due to their natural melatonin content. Oatmeal and bananas also help by providing complex carbs and magnesium that relax muscles and support melatonin production. Timing matters too. A small snack about an hour before bed works better than eating a large meal, which can actually disrupt sleep. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and spicy or high-fat foods in the evening, as these interfere with sleep quality even if they don't prevent you from falling asleep initially.