Billy Heffner

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Vitamins For Sleep - Vitamins B6 Can Relieve Insomnia and Night Cramps

natural sleep aid - Sleep is a process that rejuvenates and refreshes us. But for many people who suffer from insomnia, depression and other mood disorders dropping off to sleep does not come easy. Night cramps along with other neurological disorders may also make it hard to get the rest we need. One of the most common reasons for insomnia is a dysfunction in the production and release of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.

Depression and insomnia can both derive from imbalances in serotonin, a neurotransmitter synthesized from L-tryptophan. This chemical messenger is essential in the production of the sleep hormone melatonin and, among other functions, plays a significant role in regulating sleep, alleviating depression, controlling mood, appetite, and sensitivity to pain. Serotonin regulation is the basis for the action of anti-depressant medications like Prozac, Paxil and Effexor.

Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is central to the nutrient that plays a crucial role in the production of serotonin. A profound malfunctioning of the nerves inside the body, neurologic disorders, muscle weakness and insomnia can result from a deficiency of this crucial nutrient. The effect of Vitamin B6 deficiency on sleep is similar to the effect of serotonin depletion, with regards to decreased deep temperature, altered REM patterns and shortening with the periods of deep sleep.

natural remedies for sleep deprivation - Vitamin B6 has been discovered to be effective in the management of night leg cramps. One study showed significant remission and reduction in frequency, intensity and time period of leg cramps in 86% of patients taking B complex capsules. The study concluded that B complex supplements really are a relatively safe and effective option to prescription drugs in the strategy for nocturnal leg cramps.

Although this nutrient can be obtained from food sources including chicken, eggs, fish, yeast, carrots, avocados, bananas, brown rice and whole grain products, a supplement containing 10 to 75 mg of vitamin B6 is frequently recommended for those struggling with sleep disorders.

Since this is one of the few vitamins that can have toxic negative effects, such as irreversible neurological damage, when used high doses above 2 grams daily, it should be consumed after consultation along with your physician. It is contraindicated for use in those with Parkinson's disease that are on L-dopa treatment as it can reduce the effectiveness of the drug.

Other Nutrients That Can Help

Although Vitamin B6 is can relieve insomnia, it's a good idea taken in combination with other B-vitamins which affect brain and neurotransmitter function like B12 (cobalamin) and B1 (thiamine). B12 promotes sleep and modulates the circadian rhythm and brain temperature. It is often used to successfully treat serious circadian disorders. B12 is better consumed as methylcobalamin, a questionnaire that supports and maintains the nervous system and promotes healthy amounts of brain chemicals.

natural remedies for sleep deprivation - Thiamine deficiency may also cause sleep disturbances. Folate (Vitamin B9) is also extremely important for maintenance of nerves integrity and, when taken and also other vitamins, can regulate serotonin production and mood. Calcium and magnesium are important for unsafe effects of nerve and muscle impulses and supplementation can prevent muscle cramps, and promote relaxation.

Besides these nutrients, there are numerous of herbs that reduce anxiety, nervous tension and promote relaxation. Taking all these elements in a well-formulated sleep supplement can assist you avoid addictive prescription drugs that cause side effects and substance dependence.

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