Struggling to Sleep? Nutraceuticals May Help Reset Your Circadian Rhythm Naturally:

Suspense crime, Digital Desk : The feeling of exhaustion paired with the inability to sleep points towards a disrupted circadian rhythm, also referred to as the body’s internal 24-hour clock. This clock determines how alert or sleepy a person feels. A misaligned circadian rhythm can lead to poor quality sleep.

Lifestyle changes are the culprits. As Dr. Bindushree Bhandary, Senior Nutrition Officer at Herbalife states, “Screen time, late work hours, and even the consumption of caffeinated beverages all powerfully suppress melatonin synthesis.”

Rise in Insomnia Across India
A new study reported by sleep science and practice reveals close to 30% of elderly Indians suffer from insomnia and the number keeps rising. This ever-increasing issue portrays the dire need for restorative sleep.

Nutraceuticals provide great aid
As stated by the NIH, nutraceuticals, or dietary supplements derived from food, blend nutritional elements and medicinal value which makes them useful for managing health conditions.

As Dr. Bhandary states, “sleep is highly important rest goes beyond just resting.” Lack of sleep can have negative implications on a person’s mood, and personal relationships. “Nutraceuticals can help by supporting neurotransmitters responsible for relaxation,” says Dr. Bhandary.

He also mentions that these supplements do not forcefully put you to sleep, but aid in encouraging the body to relax gently over a period of time.

5 Nutraceuticals That Support Better Sleep

Magnesium Kneads the Head For Calm

“Magnesium strengthens the inhibitory GABAergic system in GABA, a neurotransmitter which relaxes the nervous system. Magnesium helps reduces brain excitability,” says Dr. Bhandary.

Saffron Extract Enhances Mood and Sleep Quality

Dr. Bhandary remarks that saffron aids serves as a mood booster, allowing it to function as a sleep aid. Saffron also serves as a great supplement for mild cases of anxiety alongside restful sleep.

Melatonin Relaxes Body Clock

Melatonin should be taken an hour before the desired sleep time, this is done to allow the body enough time to prepare for sleep. During this, there sould be a simulated natural darkening of lights to alert the body it is time for sleep.

L-Theanine Mild Drowsiness Inducer

Unlike the other mentioned substances, L-theanine is not a sleep-inducing substance but eases the presence of tension in the mind which makes going to sleep easier without feelings of sedation. This amino acid is said to aid in the reduction of stress and allows for a calm state without inducing a sleep state, and is derived from green tea.

Right Timing – Key to Effectiveness

Dr. Bhandary says, “With melatonin, take it right before bedtime. However, magnesium and saffron must be taken early in the evening.” He adds that no caffeine should be consumed past 3 PM since it can impact sleep for several hours.