Nighttime Nibbles: Are Dry Fruits Your Healthful Sleep Ally or Sweet Saboteur?
The clock strikes 8 PM, and your tummy starts rumbling. Should you reach for the chips, dive into ice cream, or choose a healthier option? Dry fruits often emerge as a contender, packed with nutrients and boasting potential sleep benefits. But are they truly the nighttime snack hero they claim to be? Let's delve into the sweet (and not-so-sweet) truth about dry fruits and your evening snacking habits. The Case for Dry Fruits: Nutrient Powerhouse: Almonds, walnuts, pistachios – these tiny titans are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats, supporting everything from heart health to brain function. Curb Those Cravings: Feeling peckish? Dry fruits ' fiber content keeps you feeling fuller for longer, potentially curbing cravings for less healthy, calorie-dense treats. Sleep-Inducing Magic? Cherries and pistachios contain melatonin, a hormone promoting better sleep. While research is ongoing, ...