Help for Sleeping

 

 

While this parody of a prescribed sleeping pill is funny, it also brings to mind the dangers of using strong medication to get some much needed sleep.

We all have those times when insomnia strikes. It seems impossible to get the shut eye we need. Whether it be difficulty falling asleep, waking up a lot during the night, waking too early in the morning and not being able to get back to sleep, or waking up feeling unrefreshed insomnia strikes most of us at least once.

What about those who have nights like this all the time? Hormone levels can be affected, aging accelerates and it can cause problems like diabetes, depression and cancer. It’s easy to want a quick fix to the sleep problem. But the question should be asked, what causes these problems?

Stress, overactive adrenal glands (usually due to stress), people with damage to their optic nerve (eye problems), cell phone use, too much light in the room, being too warm, having hormonal fluctuations, lack of certain nutrients, and having the alarm clock right by your head are just some of the reasons for not getting a good night’s sleep. Addressing these issues can help you get on the right track to getting the sleep you need.

Natural Sleeping Remedies

Some natural ways to help induce sleep are as follows. While, I am not a big fan of using a melatonin supplement or spray or what have you, I still wanted it to be included in this list, so you can be informed of what’s out there.

Magnesium and Calcium

Magnesium and calcium are both sleep boosters, and when taken together they become even more effective. Plus, by taking magnesium you cancel out any potential heart problems that might arise from taking calcium alone. Take 200 milligrams of magnesium (you can lower the dose if it causes diarrhea) and 600 milligrams of calcium each night.

Valerian

Valerian is one of the most common sleep remedies for insomnia. Numerous studies have found that valerian improves deep sleep, speed of falling asleep, and overall quality of sleep. However, it’s most effective when used over a longer period of time. Keep in mind that about 10 percent of the people who use it actually feel energized, which may keep them awake. If that happens to you, take valerian during the day. Otherwise, take 200 to 800 milligrams before bed.

Passion Flower Extract

Passion flower extract has been used for nearly two centuries as a remedy for a wide range of medical conditions. This herbal remedy is ideal for people who suffer from disorders related to sleep and behavior such as insomnia, epilepsy, and anxiety.

German Chamomile

Chamomile has been used as a medicine for thousands of years, dating back to the ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks. Historically, chamomile has been used to treat many conditions, including insomnia and anxiety, Animal studies have found that low doses of chamomile may relieve anxiety, while higher doses promote sleep.

Wild lettuce

If you’ve suffered anxiety, headaches, or muscle or joint pain, you might already be familiar with wild lettuce. It’s also effective at calming restlessness and reducing anxiety, and may even quell restless legs syndrome. When using a wild-lettuce supplement, take 30 to 120 milligrams before bed.

Hops

Beer fans are already familiar with the calming effect of hops, the female flowers used in beer making. For sleep purposes, this extract has been widely used as a mild sedative for anxiety and insomnia. Take 30 to 120 milligrams before climbing under the covers.

Aromatherapy

Lavender is the trick here, as studies have proven that it aids in sleep. It’s also an inexpensive, nontoxic way to slip into a peaceful slumber. Find a spray with real lavender and spritz it on your pillow before bedtime, or buy a lavender-filled pillow.

Melatonin

Melatonin is the hormone that controls sleep, so it’s no wonder that it naturally induces sleep. Studies show that lower doses are more effective — plus, there’s concern that too-high doses could cause toxicity as well as raise the risk of depression or infertility.

Yoga and Meditation

Choose gentle yoga or stretching, not vigorous power or ashtanga yoga, which could energize you instead. Try easy yoga stretches in bed followed by simple meditation. Close your eyes and, for 5 to 10 minutes, pay attention to nothing but your breathing.

L-theanine

This amino acid comes from green tea, and not only helps maintain a calm alertness during the day but also a deeper sleep at night. However, green tea doesn’t contain enough L-theanine to significantly boost your REM cycles, and might make you wake up to go to the bathroom. Instead, buy pure, active L-theanine (some brands have inactive forms of theanine that block the effectiveness), and take 50 to 200 milligrams at bedtime.

Recommended All Natural Sleep Aid

Gentle Sleep Complex*

Best Natural Sleep Aid

For a Good Night’s Rest*

This unique Shaklee combination features passion flower, German chamomile, and valerian. Valerian has been used for over a thousand years because it helps maintain a calm state, promotes relaxation, and is a natural means of promoting restful sleep.*

Benefits of Natural Sleep Aid, Gentle Sleep Complex

  • Used safely and traditionally to promote restful sleep*
  • Natural support for maintaining a calm state*
  • Guaranteed to provide 0.8% valerenic acid per serving

 

 

For More Information Click Links Below

Magnesium Benefits
What is the Best Magnesium Supplement and it’s Benefits?
Health Facts About Stress
Vitamins and Supplements For Stress
The Ultimate Multivitamin Pack

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