New research suggests that adding potassium to your evening meal could help improve sleep quality.
A study involving about 4,600 adults found a link between potassium intake and fewer insomnia symptoms. Participants who consumed more potassium, especially at dinner, reported better sleep.
Potassium helps muscles relax and supports healthy blood pressure, both of which are tied to restful sleep. The study, published in the journal Nutrients, also found that sodium intake did not show a strong connection to sleep problems.
Researchers noted that the timing of potassium consumption appeared to matter. Eating potassium-rich foods at dinner had the most impact, possibly because it helps regulate nighttime blood pressure and relaxation.
Foods high in potassium include sweet potatoes, leafy greens like spinach, avocado, white beans, and fruits such as bananas and citrus. Adding these to an evening meal may support deeper sleep.
The study adds to a growing body of research on how diet affects sleep. Other minerals, such as magnesium, have also been studied for their role in sleep regulation, but this research highlights potassium as a key nutrient for nighttime rest.
For those struggling with restless nights, adjusting dinner choices to include more potassium-rich foods could be a simple step toward better sleep.
