Dates present a dual action sleep enhancer because they contain tryptophan and they also contain fast-acting carbohydrates that help the tryptophan take effect. This means they not only provide the element that induces drowsiness, but also the means to have it work more effectively. Consuming dates an hour before you plan to go to sleep will make it so you have less of a problem drifting off. Other foods that are a rich source of tryptophan is turkey, dairy, nuts, and seeds. The trick is you’ll want to eat a food that is rich in carbohydrates at the same time to make it work better.