Dennis Switzer
De BISAWiki
Vitamins For Sleep - Vitamins B6 Can Relieve Insomnia and Night Cramps
sleep stabilizer - Sleep is a process that rejuvenates and refreshes us. But for many people who suffer from insomnia, depression along with other mood disorders dropping off to sleep does not come easy. Night cramps and other neurological disorders can also make it hard to get the others we need. One of the most common causes of insomnia is a dysfunction in the production and release 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 essential in the production of the sleep hormone melatonin and, among other functions, plays a major 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 nerves inside the body, neurologic disorders, muscle weakness and insomnia migh result from a deficiency of this significant nutrient. The effect of Vitamin B6 deficiency on sleep is similar to the effect of serotonin depletion, in terms of decreased deep body's temperature, altered REM patterns and shortening with the periods of deep sleep.
natural sleeping remedies - 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 research concluded that B complex supplements really are a relatively safe and effective alternative to prescription drugs in the strategy to 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 grain products, a supplement containing 10 to 75 mg of vitamin B6 is frequently recommended for those struggling with sleep disorders.
Since this is one of the few vitamins that can have toxic side effects, such as irreversible neurological damage, when drawn in high doses above 2 grams each day, it should be consumed after consultation together with your physician. It is contraindicated for use in those with Parkinson's disease that are on L-dopa treatment as it can reduce the effectiveness from the drug.
Other Nutrients That will help
Although Vitamin B6 is can relieve insomnia, it's a good idea taken in combination with other B-vitamins which affect 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 best consumed as methylcobalamin, a form that supports and maintains the central nervous system and promotes healthy degrees of brain chemicals.
herbs to help you sleep - Thiamine deficiency may also cause sleep disturbances. Folic acid (Vitamin B9) is also very important for maintenance of nerves integrity and, when taken along with 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 a variety of herbs that reduce anxiety, nervous tension and promote relaxation. Taking all these elements in a well-formulated sleep supplement can help you avoid addictive prescription drugs that cause side effects and substance dependence.
