There are many potential causes for insomnia, including sleep apnea, snoring, bladder or prostate problems, stress or depression.
People who are over 60 years old and women going through the menopause are more prone to insomnia, probably due to decreased levels of melatonin in the brain.
Other causes for insomnia include...
- "restless legs" syndrome
- magnesium or iron deficiency
- hormonal imbalance
- excessive consumption of caffeine or other stimulants.
Insomnia is also a side effect of some prescription anti-depressant medication.
In order to understand the causes for insomnia, we need to have a look at how the sleep cycle works.
The amino acid L-tryptophan (found naturally in certain foods) is used in the manufacture of a neurotransmitter called serotonin.
Serotonin, in turn, is transformed into melatonin by the pineal gland in the brain. The pineal gland only becomes active after dark. By regulating levels of melatonin, our bodies create the 'sleep-wake cycle'.
Of course the process is more complex than this and there are other things that could contribute to sleep problems. However, sufficient production of serotonin and melatonin is crucial in promoting and maintaining healthy sleep.
According to a poll by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), 60% of American adults experience sleep problems. Those who said they had trouble sleeping reported a greater difficulty concentrating, accomplishing required tasks, and handling minor irritations.
Sleep is essential for good health, mental and emotional stability, and safety. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has estimated more than 100,000 auto crashes annually may be fatigue related.
The basic stages of sleep are classified in two ways: REM (rapid eye movement) and non-REM. About 75% of total sleep is spent in non-REM and 25% in REM. A good night's sleep depends on the proper balance of these components.
Causes for Insomnia - Tips for getting a good night's sleep
Avoid caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol in the late afternoon and evening. Caffeine and nicotine can delay your sleep, and alcohol may interrupt your sleep later in the night.
Don't nap during the day. A daytime nap may affect your ability to sleep at night.
Exercise regularly, but do so at least three hours before bed-time.
A workout too close to bed may actually keep you awake because your body has not had a chance to cool down.
Establish a regular, relaxing bedtime routine that will allow you to unwind and send a "signal" to your brain that it's time to sleep. Avoiding exposure to bright light before bedtime and taking a hot bath may help.
Don't use your bed for reading, watching T.V. or other activities. Your bed should be associated with sleep.
Consider your sleep environment. Make it as pleasant, comfortable, dark, and as quiet as you can.
If you can't go to sleep after 30 minutes, don't stay in bed tossing and turning. Get up and involve yourself in a relaxing activity, such as listening to soothing music or reading until you feel sleepy.
Remember: Try to clear your mind. Don't use this time to solve your daily problems.
For a natural insomnia remedy we recommend Serenite by Native Remedies.
Serenite Sleep Drops or Capsules contain carefully selected herbs which have been used for centuries to promote relaxation and induce a state of drowsiness. If occasional sleep difficulties are your problem, Serenite is a proven, 100% safe, non-addictive alternative to prescription sleeping pills.
Serenite's herbal ingredients provide extraordinary calming properties and act as a tonic for the nervous system, helping you to get a full night's sleep, awakening refreshed and revitalized.
We use Native Remedies formulas on a daily basis and have always been very satisfied
with the results.
Wishing You Good Health!
The Editors i-health-info.com
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