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

natural sleep remedies for insomnia - Sleep can be a process that rejuvenates and refreshes us. However for many people who suffer from insomnia, depression as well as other mood disorders falling asleep 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 inside the production and discharge 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 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 central to the nutrient that plays a vital role in the production of serotonin. An amazing malfunctioning of the central 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 resembles the effect of serotonin depletion, with regards to decreased deep body temperature, altered REM patterns and shortening with the periods of deep sleep.

natural sleep supplements - Vitamin B6 has been found to be effective in the treatment of night leg cramps. One study showed significant remission and lowering of frequency, intensity and duration of leg cramps in 86% of patients taking B complex capsules. The study concluded that B complex supplements certainly are a relatively safe and effective substitute for prescription drugs in the strategy for nocturnal leg cramps.

Although 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 usually recommended for those suffering from sleep disorders.

Since this is mostly of the vitamins that can have toxic side effects, such as irreversible neurological damage, when taken in high doses above 2 grams daily, it should be consumed after consultation together with your physician. It is contraindicated for use 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 is 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 has been used to successfully treat serious circadian disorders. B12 is best consumed as methylcobalamin, a form that supports and maintains the central nervous system and promotes healthy degrees of brain chemicals.

natural sleep aid - Thiamine deficiency also can cause sleep disturbances. Folate (Vitamin B9) is also essential for maintenance of nervous system integrity and, when taken along with other vitamins, can regulate serotonin production and mood. Calcium and magnesium are important for regulating nerve and muscle impulses and supplementation can prevent muscle cramps, and promote relaxation.

Besides these nutrients, there are a variety 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.