Sleeplessness is a major disruption to productivity and well being. Irritability, lack of focus, and depression are just a few ways in which lack of sleep can impair an already busy persons life. Though insomnia sufferers frequently seek prescription medications as a quick fix, natural sleep aids are a healthier, more effective alternative to getting the sleep you need.
Lack of sleep may stem from a deficiency or imbalance in your bodys natural sleep-regulating chemicals. There are a variety of natural sleep supplements to put these chemicals back on track. Melatonin, for example, is a hormone that regulates the bodys sleep. In pill form it is taken nightly before bed, until a normal sleeping pattern develops.
Similarly, SAMe (S-adenosyl-methionine) is prescribed as a natural sleep aid to individuals who experience long term sleeplessness. In fact, SAMe and melatonin work as a team to stimulate serotonin production in the body to develop healthy long-term sleep. SAMe is usually taken daily in 200mg dosages on an empty stomach.
Some people shy away from pills, natural or otherwise. Luckily, natural sleep remedies can quite simple, and effective. As it turns out, there is truth to the old wives' tale "drink a warm glass of milk before bed." Milk contains the chemical tryptophan. Tryptophan induces serotonin, producing a relaxing sensation. Adding more milk or high-protein foods such as lean meats and brown rice can lead to more satisfying sleep over time.
