Staying on a consistent sleeping pattern can be tough as a student. Between the freshmen in the neighboring dorm blasting music until 2am, the late-night cram sessions and the simple freedom college gives you it’s hard to fall asleep much less sleep on a schedule.

Unfortunately, sleep is one thing that is necessary for a healthy and engaging brain, social life, and school results. How can you help yourself along with getting the sleep you need? For starters, stay away from these foods that can keep you awake:

• Bacon
• Refined carbohydrates
• MSG
• Alcohol (although a depressant, drinking more than one glass of alcohol can make you wake in the middle of the night and have a bad night’s sleep in general)
• Chocolate

If you stay away from these foods and are still having trouble sleeping, try eating some of the following foods; foods known to help you sleep:

• Cottage cheese
• Sesame seeds
• Brown rice
• Spinach

Even if you’re in a dorm room these things can be stored easily and created with little to no kitchen appliances. Along with these steps, take out caffeine and walk to classes! Physical exertion during the day can lead to a sleepier brain at night.