That delicious avocado mash on your toast or guacamole in your bowl might do more than satisfy your taste buds—it might help you sleep better.
A Surprising Discovery
A recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association followed nearly 1,000 adults over 26 weeks. Half of the participants ate one Hass avocado every day, while the other half kept their usual diets (which included little to no avocado).
While the researchers expected to see improvements in cholesterol and overall diet—and they did—what caught them off guard was something else: people who ate avocados regularly reported better sleep!
Why Might Avocados Help with Sleep?
It turns out that avocados are loaded with nutrients that can support a better night’s rest. These include:
- Healthy fats (monounsaturated fats)
- Potassium and magnesium (which help regulate blood pressure and muscle function)
- Folate and vitamin K (important for brain health)
- Fiber and antioxidants (which help fight inflammation)
These nutrients may help the body relax, balance mood, and support the kind of calm your body needs to fall—and stay—asleep.
It's Not a Miracle Cure—but It Can Help
Sleep expert and study author Dr. Kristina Petersen reminds us that avocados aren't a magic fix. They work best as part of a healthy lifestyle, and good sleep hygiene including habits like:
- Cutting back on caffeine and alcohol
- Limiting screen time before bed
- Staying active during the day
- Managing stress
How Much Is Too Much?
Avocados are healthy, but they’re also calorie-dense. Experts suggest sticking to one avocado per day to enjoy the benefits without overdoing it.
Sweet Dreams, the Tasty Way
So, the next time you're enjoying avocado on toast or dipping your chips in guacamole, know that you're doing more than following a food trend. You might just be giving your body a natural nudge toward better, more restful sleep.
Dream big, work hard, sleep ambitiously,
Joe Castignani
