Don’t Let Insomnia Keep You From A Proper Night’s Sleep

Almost 6 million people rely on prescription or over the counter drugs to aid in sleep every year. That is approximately one in four people who suffer from insomnia on a consistent basis. Those suffering from insomnia usually have two problems with their sleeping habits. The problems sufferers have is either getting to sleep or staying asleep. Also, consider the fact that everyone in the nation does not follow the same sleeping schedule daily or need the same amount of sleep. There are natural supplements that can help restore proper sleep patterns. If you can identify some key factors that may contribute to the loss of sleep you are experiencing, a few changes in your habits at night can do the trick and help you attain a good nights sleep.

Nearly half of all diagnosed cases of insomnia have been linked to physiological causes, treating those will solve the sleep problem. For example, people with hypoglycemia, which is low blood sugar, or yeast infections, may wake up in the night as a result of changes in the blood caused by these conditions. For hypoglycemic individuals, consumption of juice or fruit can usually relieve the symptoms, but one should consult a health care professional for other solutions because leaving diabetic problems unchecked can lead to more serious health problems down the road. Those suffering from yeast infections can change their diet consuming less starchy and sugary foods.

Those who are deficient in vitamin B6, vitamin B3 (niacin), magnesium, or l-tryptophan may be lacking in serotonin. By changing your diet and eating foods high in these vitamins can bring back the hormone levels individuals need for proper sleep. If changes in diet aren’t possible adding a vitamin supplement can help one attain the nutrients needed for better sleep. A health care professional will be able to do a blood test to tell if serotonin is the problem and what supplements one could take to address this issue.

A lack of calcium and magnesium may cause muscle tension, spasms and cramps, abnormal heart rhythms, headaches, anxiousness, nervousness and irritability. A good calcium and magnesium supplement formulated at one to one ratio for example: 500mg calcium/500mg magnesium per serving taken at bed time can help one relax and sleep better.

Another possible problem is daily stress. Reducing the levels of stress we experience during the day can be hard, and we are still on the go in the evenings after a hard days work. Daily stress can be a major source of anxiety and rob us of sleep. To compensate for the hard days work, your evenings after work should be your winding down time, take a nice long walk in the park, reading a book or a hot bath is great for reducing stress that has built up during the day.

Also, pay attention to your bedroom surroundings. Noise, light, temperature, and weather changes can disturb your sleep. Comfort levels can affect sleep as well; your pillow, mattress, bedding, and night clothes can all affect your sleep. If you suspect that one of these is the cause of your insomnia, try experimenting with bedtime surroundings and see how your sleep is affected.

There are some herbs that can also be used to help get you to sleep and keep you there. Start with reishi mushroom take 3 grams each day, hops steeped as tea may help as well. Look for valerian root and take 400mg to 500mg 30min before bed time. Skullcap and passion flower can also aid in attaining good rest. Your local health food store should also have kava kava, which is good for reducing stress and anxiety. Take kava kava right when you get home and one before bed time. Kava kava is an herb you do not want to take with MAO inhibitors (prescription drubs for sleep and anxiety). Always consult your family doctor before beginning herbal supplements if you are on medications.

Remember do not let insomnia get you down, fight back with proper nutrition and exercise two to three times a week. Always consult a health care professional if you think you have a sleep problem and give some of the above listed herbs a try. You can be well on your way to a better nights sleep in no time. Good luck.

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