According to a study by the Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, diet may have a significant impact on sleep. The research, published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, showed that certain eating habits are associated with healthier sleep.

The study involved 1,497 participants who completed a detailed dietary questionnaire. Researchers evaluated the consumption of 12 food groups — including vegetables, fruits, meat, grains, and dairy products — and identified several typical dietary patterns.

Sleep quality was measured using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, which takes into account sleep duration, difficulty falling asleep, nighttime awakenings, and the overall feeling of rest and recovery.

The analysis showed that only one dietary pattern was linked to improved sleep: people who regularly consumed fresh fruits, vegetables, and dairy products were less likely to complain about insomnia and poor rest. The higher the share of these foods in the diet, the lower the likelihood of sleep problems.

The researchers note that the study does not prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship, but the results highlight the importance of overall dietary habits in maintaining healthy sleep.