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

stabilize sleep - Sleep is really a process that rejuvenates and refreshes us. However for many people who suffer from insomnia, depression and other mood disorders falling asleep does not come easy. Night cramps along with other neurological disorders also can make it hard to get the others we need. One of the most common reasons for insomnia is a dysfunction inside the production and discharge of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.

Depression and insomnia can both be a consequence of 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 an important 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 profound malfunctioning of the nervous system, neurologic disorders, muscle weakness and insomnia can result from a deficiency of this important 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 sleep aid - Vitamin B6 has been discovered to be effective in the treatment of night leg cramps. One study showed significant remission and decrease in frequency, intensity and amount of leg cramps in 86% of patients taking B complex capsules. The research concluded that B complex supplements really are a relatively safe and effective alternative to prescription drugs in the treatment for nocturnal leg cramps.

Even though this nutrient can be obtained from food sources such as chicken, eggs, fish, yeast, carrots, avocados, bananas, brown rice and whole grains, a supplement containing 10 to 75 mg of vitamin B6 is frequently recommended for those suffering from 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 with your physician. It is contraindicated to be used in those with Parkinson's disease who are on L-dopa treatment as it could reduce the effectiveness from the drug.

Other Nutrients Which will help

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

melatonin sleep pills - Thiamine deficiency may also cause sleep disturbances. Folate (Vitamin B9) is also very important 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 regulation 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 each one of these elements in a well-formulated sleep supplement can assist you avoid addictive prescription medications that cause side effects and substance dependence.