Scientists from the Harvard School of Public Health found that high amounts of plant protein in the diet helps improve sleep quality. Results of scientific study published In the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition (EJCN).
Data from 14,796 men and more than 83 thousand women were used in the research. Scientists collected information about participants’ eating habits and sleep quality. More than 65% of study participants reported getting seven to eight hours of sleep each night.
Overall, scientists found no link between high protein intake and sleep quality. However, correlation analysis showed that protein from plant sources contributed to reduced night wakings and increased rest efficiency. Rich sources of plant protein include legumes, grains, seeds and nuts.
Additionally, the study found that consumption of processed and unprocessed red meat and poultry was associated with decreased quality of nighttime sleep. Such relationships were not observed in fish. Scientists suggested that meat containing more fat shortens the stages of deep sleep.
Previously recognizedIt turns out that good sleep improves immunity by increasing growth hormone levels.