DENVER -- Sleep problems plague millions of americans, and if you count yourself among that group, your problems falling asleep may have to do with the foods you're eating, and the time of day you're consuming them.

Here are the foods to avoid, and some snacks you might try instead, according to a Woman's World Magazine's panel of experts.

Avoid Coffee and chocolate after noon: It's true you'll get an energy boost, but the caffeine will still be in your system hours afterward. Instead, try celery with peanut butter. The protein gives your metabolism a boost and the crunch from the celery helps you stay sharp without interfering with sleep.

Avoid milk and dairy products after dinner: Although these foods have the reputation as natural sleep aids, the truth is that dairy products get the acids in your stomach churning, which keeps you awake. Instead, try some lean turkey. Like milk, turkey also has tryptophan which helps make you sleepy. And it won't upset your stomach.

Try a "sleepy cookie": that's one made with oatmeal, granola, or other whole grains. The complex carbohydrates in these types of cookies steadies blood sugar, which helps the body relax.