Shane Montgomery
De BISAWiki
Vitamins For Sleep - Vitamins B6 Can Relieve Insomnia and Night Cramps
natural sleeping aids - Sleep is 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 as well as other neurological disorders also can make it hard to get the rest we need. One of the most common reasons for insomnia is a dysfunction in the production and launch 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 an important role in regulating sleep, alleviating depression, controlling mood, appetite, and sensitivity to pain. Serotonin regulation may be the basis for the action of anti-depressant medications like Prozac, Paxil and Effexor.
Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is a vital nutrient that plays a vital role in the production of serotonin. An amazing 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 comparable to the effect of serotonin depletion, when it comes to decreased deep temperature, altered REM patterns and shortening from the periods of deep sleep.
sleep stabilizer - Vitamin B6 has been found to be effective in the management of night leg cramps. One study showed significant remission and reduction in frequency, intensity and amount 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 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 often 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 taken in high doses above 2 grams each day, it should be consumed after consultation together 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 with the drug.
Other Nutrients Which will help
Although Vitamin B6 is can relieve insomnia, it's a good idea taken in combination with other B-vitamins affecting 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 form that supports and maintains the central nervous system and promotes healthy degrees of brain chemicals.
herbs that help you sleep - Thiamine deficiency can also cause sleep disturbances. Folate (Vitamin B9) is also extremely important for maintenance of nervous system integrity and, when taken and also other vitamins, can regulate serotonin production and mood. Magnesium and calcium are important for regulating 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 medications that cause side effects and substance dependence.
