9 Effective Sleep Supplements

Getting adequate rest in the form of a good 8 hours of sleep every night is an essential component of healthy living and failing to do so can lead to a number of health complications. Sleeplessness or insomnia has other adverse impacts too, such as the fact that an individual who does not get the required amount of sleep every night may be tired, lethargic and unproductive the next day. Bearing in mind the importance of sleep; most people that are affected by sleeplessness or insomnia seek various forms of assistance to get the rest that is sorely needed; sleep supplements are a primary example. This article aims to shed light on the most effective and the best sleep supplements.

#1. 5-HTP

Serotonin is largely credited for triggering sleep and being actively involved in REM sleep. 5-HTP is an essential nutrient for those affected by sleeplessness and insomnia as it converts into serotonin in the human brain; which triggers sleep as mentioned before. One reason why getting a good night’s sleep is even more difficult as we age is lowered levels of serotonin that 5-HTP can easily replace. 5-HTP is arguably one of the best and safest sleep supplements.

#2. GABA

Gama butyric acid or what is commonly abbreviated to GABA is a chemical that is naturally produced by the brain but is also consumed as a supplement to enhance sleep. This potent neurotransmitter inhibits nerve activity and causes the body to go into rest mode. Decreased levels of naturally produced GABA have been documented in insomniacs and those suffering from other sleep disorders and GABA supplementation could potentially help such individuals.

#3. 5-HTP and GABA Combined

Recent research suggests that a combination of 5-HTP and GABA supplements may have a greater impact in the fight against sleeplessness and insomnia; however, research has not been conducted on human subjects as yet. Talk to your doctor about taking these two supplements in combination before mixing compounds. Insomnia is mainly caused by a combined deficiency of GABA and serotonin levels in the brain, which is why these two sleep supplements form a potent team to fight insomnia.

#4. L-Theanine

L-theanine is an amino acid that has the combined effect of increasing serotonin, GABA and dopamine production in the brain; all of which either trigger or promote sleep. L-theanine is found in abundance in green tea; however, over the counter supplements are also available. Recent studies suggests that L-theanine can counter the effects of caffeine that causes wakefulness, is less addictive than other sleep supplements and also helps those with depression get the rest that they sorely need. All this makes L-theanine one of the best sleep supplements out there.

#5. Vitamin B6

Minor cases of sleeplessness or delayed sleep can be effectively treated with vitamin B6 supplementation. Vitamin B6 helps in the conversion of tryptophan in the body into serotonin, which as mentioned before; is a potent sleep hormone. Vitamin B6 is directly involved in the metabolism of tryptophan and vitamin B6 deficiency could lead to lowered serotonin levels; which ultimately leads to insomnia and sleeplessness. Vitamin B6 can help fix this problem and induce good sleep.

#6. Passion Flower

Passion flower is a naturally occurring sleep supplement often taken in tea or pill form to increase GABA production in the brain. As mentioned before; balanced GABA levels can lead to better sleep and relief from factors like depression and anxiety that can often have a negative impact on sleep quality. Passion flower supplements are one of the best sleep supplements.

#7. Kava

Kava or Kava Kava is a root found in the South Pacific Islands; which when consumed as a beverage can enhance sleep quality. Kava is not only known to trigger sleep, but also elevates the mood and gives relief from depression and anxiety. Ongoing research suggests that Kava may be linked to liver toxicity which is why moderate consumption of Kava as a sleep supplement, only when required; is recommended.

#8. CBD Oil

CBD oil or cannabis oil is finding much favor as a supplement for sleeplessness, insomnia, anxiety and depression. While cannabis is often associated with drug use; CBD oil is primarily non-psychoactive and this makes CBD oil or cannabis oil a good sleep supplement.

#9. Magnesium

Magnesium deficiency can trigger neural hyperactivity, which results in a range of symptoms including anxiety and sleeplessness. For many insomniacs or those affected by sleeplessness; balancing magnesium levels in the body with magnesium supplementation can lead to stable sleep patterns.

Conclusion

In conclusion; it is important to note that the supplements listed above aren’t the only sleep enhancing supplements. Others also exist; but the emphasis here is on safety and effectiveness of the sleep supplements. Additionally; it is also necessary to note that sleep supplements are very different from sleep medications, which are mostly psycho-reactive and can lead to dependency in the long run. The emphasis here is to provide the safest supplementary alternatives to mainstream sleep inducing drugs and the most effective alternatives to herbal supplements that may or may not work to promote sleep.

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9 Effective Sleep Supplements