Denise Sherrill
De BISAWiki
Vitamins For Sleep - Vitamins B6 Can Relieve Insomnia and Night Cramps
all natural sleep aid - Sleep is really a process that rejuvenates and refreshes us. However for many people who suffer from insomnia, depression along with other mood disorders dropping off to sleep does not come easy. Night cramps along with other neurological disorders also can make it hard to get the rest we need. One of the most common causes of insomnia is a dysfunction within 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 very important 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 a vital nutrient that plays an important role in the production of serotonin. A serious malfunctioning of the nervous system, neurologic disorders, muscle weakness and insomnia migh result from a deficiency of this crucial nutrient. The effect of Vitamin B6 deficiency on sleep resembles the effect of serotonin depletion, in terms of decreased deep body temperature, altered REM patterns and shortening from the periods of deep sleep.
melatonin sleep pills - Vitamin B6 has been found to be effective in the treatment 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 analysis concluded that B complex supplements are a relatively safe and effective option to prescription drugs in the treatment for nocturnal leg cramps.
Even if this nutrient can be obtained from food sources such as 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 experiencing sleep disorders.
Since this is one of the few vitamins that can have toxic unwanted effects, such as irreversible neurological damage, when used high doses above 2 grams daily, it should be consumed after consultation together with your physician. It is contraindicated to be used in those with Parkinson's disease who're on L-dopa treatment as it could reduce the effectiveness from the drug.
Other Nutrients That Can Help
Although Vitamin B6 is can relieve insomnia, it is best 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 nerves and promotes healthy amounts of brain chemicals.
melatonin sleep - Thiamine deficiency can also cause sleep disturbances. Vitamin b folic acid (Vitamin B9) is also essential for maintenance of central nervous system integrity and, when taken along with other vitamins, can regulate serotonin production and mood. Magnesium and calcium are important for unsafe effects of nerve and muscle impulses and supplementation can prevent muscle cramps, and promote relaxation.
Besides these nutrients, there are a number of herbs that reduce anxiety, nervous tension and promote relaxation. Taking every one of these elements in a well-formulated sleep supplement can assist you avoid addictive prescription drugs that cause side effects and substance dependence.
