Part of resting well does rely on a good sleeping environment and winding down before bed. Just as important, though, is having a healthy life style. Diet, exercise, and the proper vitamins and minerals can all definitely contribute to more restful nights. Some vitamins and minerals in particular can be effective natural sleep aids. You can get a blood test taken to see if you are lacking in any nutrients which may be affecting your sleep.
• Vitamins and minerals for insomnia
Vitamin B3 (Niacin): There are several B vitamins which are helpful for sleeping better. Sometimes people with a lack of niacin in their diet have problems sleeping and are very restless. Niacin can be taken through supplements, as well as eating B3 rich foods such as liver, tuna, and bacon.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): This B vitamin helps produce serotonin. This helps your body with melatonin, which helps you sleep at night. This can be taken as a supplement, too. It is also found in paprika and fish. Natural experts claim this one of the best vitamins to take to help insomnia.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin): People without enough B12 often are generally tired, as well as confused. It can be found in several foods, including bananas, walnuts, peanuts, whole grains, and fish.
Calcium: When you were little, your Grandma probably gave you a warm glass of milk before tucking you into bed. This sweet tradition actually does have some worth to it in helping you sleep at night. Calcium, consumed with food, can make you feel relaxed and sleepy. On the other hand, a lack of calcium can cause you to feel restless. Calcium is most commonly found in milk. Take it with a snack before you go to bed to get the best results. Perhaps some on a small bowl of cereal or your favorite fruit.
Copper: Women who are going through pre-menopause often have troubles sleeping. This can be partially due to a low amount of copper in their bodies. Lobster and oysters are a great source of copper, as well as supplements which can be taken in pill form.
Folic acid: If you have restless leg syndrome, folic acid can help stop your twitching legs and help you get some relief. It can be taken in pill form, but is also found in foods such as beans and orange juice.
Magnesium: Magnesium should be combined with calcium to help make it effective. If you are suffering from a lack of this important mineral, you most likely are waking up frequently during the night. Foods with magnesium include tuna, bananas, nuts, pumpkin seeds, and spinach.
Consider talking with your doctor about what vitamins and minerals to add into your diet. He will be able to prescribe a simple blood test to determine what you are missing, and then help you examine your diet to see how you can fit in the nutrients you are missing.
