It might sound unbelievable but looks like successful, sustainable weight loss also comes from attaining excellence in a completely unexpected realm - your bedroom. In fact, scientists from Salk Institute found that sleeping is the best method of reducing calorie intake – which is even more effective than any activity.

Here are a few tips to lose weight even as you close your eyes:

Whole grains

Eat whole grains. They are a good source of serotonin which is known to regulate anxiety, happiness and mood. During the third stage of REM sleep, this hormone is converted to melatonin which can improve the quality of sleep. This powerful brain chemical also curbs cravings and shuts off appetite.

Meats

Include meats to your list of foods to lose weight. Meats such as lamb and turkey contain tryptophan, an amino acid that has demonstrated powerful sleep-inducing effects. Researchers from the University of Colorado concluded that dieters consumed 6 per cent fewer calories when they got enough sleep.

Fibre

Try to meet your daily fibre requirements – about 20 grams of fibre from food, not supplements – to assist in the conversion of serotonin to melatonin to get a good night’s rest. Foods rich in fibre can help you lose weight rapidly as they keep you full for a longer period.

Light dinner

Just eat light and don’t eat too much at night, but you shouldn’t starve yourself either. Having a large meal at night may lead to indigestion, which can interfere with your sleep and you end up feeling tired and sluggish when you wake up. Studies have also linked larger portion sizes to the obesity epidemic.

Herbal tea

Before hitting the bed, drink some herbal teas that can help you relax and sleep well. Chamomile, peppermint, lemongrass, rosebuds, are some of the best bedtime teas for inducing sleep.