Sleeplessness is a horrible condition – nobody wants to be still awake and checking the clock at 4:45am! Now more than ever, we all recognise the importance of a good night’s restorative sleep in terms of our physical health, our mental health, our sanity and our ability to cope with everyday stresses. In March, I explored some ways to improve your sleep patterns through good sleep hygiene, so this month I’m going to share some of the supplements you can take to help guide you to the restful slumber you deserve (avoiding the addictive nature and side effects of many commonly prescribed options).
L-Theanine and L-Ornithine
If you struggle with falling and staying asleep, it might be time to try taking L-Theanine and L-Ornithine by an Irish company called Macánta. Macánta means Honest in Irish, and they are a Galway company who make all their own products in their factory in Ballinasloe. Macánta produces a really excellent natural sleep remedy called L-Theanine and L-Ornithine which combines the restorative powers of those compounds with the soothing essence of Lemon Balm, creating a potent yet non-addictive all-natural sleep remedy.
Derived from green tea, L-Theanine is renowned for its ability to induce relaxation and alleviate stress, all without inducing drowsiness. It elevates focus, mental clarity, and creativity, making it a perfect choice for those yearning for a tranquil yet alert state of mind. Meanwhile, L-Ornithine fortifies liver function, expediting detoxification processes, while effectively reducing fatigue and enhancing sleep quality. This impeccable fusion, enriched by Lemon Balm’s GABA-boosting prowess, offers a natural sanctuary for those seeking respite from stress, anxiety, and fatigue.
B-Vitamins
Taking a really good quality B-Complex daily is a great way to make sure your stress response is healthy and your nervous system isn’t over-activated, and that helps with sleep.
B Vitamins are a group of vitamins that includes thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, B6, folate, B12, pantothenic acid, biotin and choline. Taken together, they’ve been proven to have a synergistic benefit to health. People have reported increased energy, improved or more stable moods, healthier skin, and improved sleep patterns.
B Vitamins are important for proper nervous system and immune system functioning. Actually, adequate amounts of the vitamin B complex group are needed on a daily basis to insure the proper function of many systems of the human body. For example, Niacin is found in every cell of the human body.
Dormeasan
On the herbal front, A Vogel produces Dormeasan which is a Valerian and Hops combination. Valerian and hops are nature’s sleep champions, imbued with remarkable properties that tame the restless mind and restore tranquillity. Valerian, an ancient herbal remedy, has been revered for centuries for its calming effects on the nervous system. It eases tension and anxiety, paving the way for a restful night’s sleep. Hops, traditionally known for their role in brewing beer, hold a hidden secret – their sedative properties. By harnessing the power of hops, we can soothe frazzled nerves and lull the mind into a state of deep relaxation. Together, Valerian and hops create a dynamic duo that not only facilitates sleep but also alleviates stress.
Magnesium Bisglycinate
Magnesium is both an essential mineral and electrolyte. It’s involved in the regulation of cellular stress and activity, which means people experiencing lots of stress may benefit from getting more. Magnesium also plays a key role in the regulation of sleep. How can magnesium glycinate help you sleep? Studies have found that magnesium supplements can help promote muscle relaxation, decrease leg cramps and muscle spasms, reduce tension and anxiety, and fight pain — all of which can keep you up at night.
Because it may help improve the quality and amount of sleep you get, magnesium bisglycinate may also help decrease daytime fatigue and enhance focus, learning and even information retention/memory.
Taken alongside a healthy diet, these supplements can help you retrain your body to relax at the right time and get a good restorative sleep. In more chronic cases, they can all be taken together. However, if you are suffering from long term sleeplessness or difficulty in getting to sleep you should consult your healthcare practitioner and seek support, as the impact of prolonged sleep reduction is a serious matter.
Organico Shop Deli & Bakery is open from 9-6pm Monday – Saturday, on Glengarriff Road in Bantry. Call us on 027 51391; email us on info@organico.ie and find us online on www.organico.ie.
