Natural Sleep Aids- from A to Zzzzzzz

The foundation of what Naturopathic Doctors do is based on treating the cause of an issue.  Therefore, understanding the cause of insomnia is vital to its effective treatment.  Insomnia can be caused by a number of things including anxiety, high stress levels and pain, and therefore are all treated differently and individually.  Taking the time to get to know our patients in order to understand what’s going on and how it can be effectively treated it is what Naturopathic Doctors do best!

Here is a list of my favourite sleep aids and how they work:

Melatonin– This hormone gets down to the basics by replenishing what we need to sleep every night.  The pineal gland secretes melatonin, and circulating levels of this hormone are responsible for setting the body’s circadian (sleep-wake) rhythm. This rhythm may be disrupted with exposure to excessive light during dark hours and insufficient amounts of light during the day.  In addition, melatonin production decreases with age making it ever more effective later in life.  So if you are still having difficulty with winding down at night and falling asleep, melatonin may be right for you!

5’HTP–  is a precursor to serotonin and melatonin in the body making it an effective and versatile supplement.  As a precursor to melatonin and serotonin the body essentially decides what is needed and when in the production of these two hormones.  As a result, 5’HTP has been shown to help improve symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and somatic pain, including fibromyalgia, in a variety of patients.  If these are symptoms you experience 5’HTP could help!  Always see your ND before starting any supplements to make sure they are safe and right for you.
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GABA (gamma-Aminobutyric acid)- is a major neurotransmitter used in the human central nervous system that is fantastic at calming the stressed and anxious mind. Stimulation of GABA receptors leads to relaxation, and the induction and enhancement of sleep.  In addition, GABA may have therapeutic benefit in the treatment of depression and mood disorders.  If turning a busy and stressed mind off before bed is what you’re struggling with, GABA may be right for you!

L-theanine– is actually a known component of green tea!  It has been associated with calming and relaxation responses via GABA receptor stimulation and is often included in many sleep formulas which contain GABA.  In addition, l‑theanine has been shown to reduce cortisol production and mitigates carbohydrate cravings, aiding in our body’s stress response!

Magnesium– this has to be my favourite mineral!  Magnesium deficiency is one of the most common mineral deficiencies in North America which explains why people tend to benefit so much from supplementing with it.  Magnesium deficiency can contribute to symptoms such as migraines, PMS, dysmenorrhea, muscle cramping, and insomnia.  Taken before bed, magnesium works as a great sleep aid and muscle relaxant, helping you achieve a restful relaxed sleep!

Need more information about these or other sleep supplements?  Interested in how naturopathic medicine can help you with your insomnia?  Feel free to email me at DrReka@EnterToBeWell.com .  I’m here to help!