Cathie Woodman

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

supplement to help you sleep - Sleep is really a process that rejuvenates and refreshes us. But for many people who suffer from insomnia, depression along with other mood disorders drifting off to sleep does not come easy. Night cramps as well as other neurological disorders may also make it hard to get the rest we need. One of the most common causes of insomnia is a dysfunction inside the production and launch of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters.

Depression and insomnia can both result from imbalances in serotonin, a neurotransmitter synthesized from L-tryptophan. This chemical messenger is 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 central to the nutrient that plays an important 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 significant nutrient. The effect of Vitamin B6 deficiency on sleep is similar to the effect of serotonin depletion, when it comes to decreased deep body temperature, altered REM patterns and shortening with the periods of deep sleep.

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

Even though this nutrient can be obtained from food sources for example 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 mostly of the vitamins that can have toxic side effects, such as irreversible neurological damage, when drawn in high doses above 2 grams daily, it should be consumed after consultation together with your physician. It is contraindicated to use in those with Parkinson's disease that are on L-dopa treatment as it can certainly 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 affecting brain and neurotransmitter function like B12 (cobalamin) and B1 (thiamine). Vitamin B12 promotes sleep and modulates the circadian rhythm and brain temperature. It has been used to successfully treat serious circadian disorders. B12 is most beneficial consumed as methylcobalamin, a form that supports and maintains the nerves and promotes healthy levels of brain chemicals.

natural sleeping pills - Thiamine deficiency also can cause sleep disturbances. Folic acid (Vitamin B9) is also essential for maintenance of nerves 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 help you avoid addictive prescription medications that cause side effects and substance dependence.