Navigation
Higher daytime intake of fruits and vegetables predicts less disrupted nighttime sleep in younger adults
This research investigates the association between dietary quality and sleep quality, emphasizing the role of dietary modifications as a natural intervention for sleep improvement. Conducted with a sample of 34 younger US adults (mean age: 28.3 ± 6.6 years), the study used the Automated Self-Administered 24-Hour Dietary Assessment Tool to evaluate dietary intake, and sleep quality was measured via wrist actigraphy, focusing on the sleep fragmentation index. Findings indicate that higher daytime intakes of fruits and vegetables (β-coefficient (SE) = −0.60 (0.29), P = .038) and carbohydrates (−0.02 (0.007), P = .022) were significantly associated with a lower sleep fragmentation index, suggesting improved sleep quality. In contrast, the intake of added sugars did not show a significant relationship (P = .54). Additionally, trends indicated that higher intakes of red and processed meats correlated with increased sleep disruptions (P = .10), while higher fiber (P = .08) and magnesium (P = .09) intakes were associated with reduced sleep disturbances. Notably, a 5-cup increase in fruits and vegetables, in line with dietary recommendations, correlated with a 16% improvement in sleep quality. These results underscore the potential of diets rich in complex carbohydrates, fruits, and vegetables to improve sleep health among young adults. [NPID: Sleep, fiber, fruit, vegetables, magnesium]
Year: 2025
