Milk at bedtime encourages better sleep because the sugars in the drink enable the brain cells to absorb more typtophan from the blood stream. The brain then converts the tryptophan into a soothing chemical called serotonin.

Experiments carried out on the amino acid tryptophan showed that it enables the subjects to go to sleep more quickly and deeper. This amino acid is converted into neurotransmitter serotonin, which is concerned with sleep. Most protein foods contain tryptophan including milk, cottage cheese, cashew nuts, peanuts, bajra, sesame, sunflower, linseed, and poultry. However, it needs the presence of vitamin B6 and a small amount of carbohydrate to work. A glass of milk sweetened with honey should be taken every night before going to bed to induce sleep. Honey and starchy foods such as bread, rice, and potatoes also act as a sedative on the brain and help to promote sleep.