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Having trouble getting to sleep at night? Feeling a little confused in the mornings or unable to remember what you have to do today? Not getting enough sleep can really throw you off your game.
Before you write it off to eating a late dinner or an excess of caffeine, consider that you might have a sleep disorder.
Insomnia not only can adversely affect your mental health, but also can lead to weight gain, energy depletion and stress. Nearly all of these symptoms can disappear when you get enough sleep.
The root of the problem often lies in the central nervous system. Melatonin is a chemical in your system that regulates the sleep cycle. Serotonin, which regulates appetite, sleep and mood, is necessary for your body's production of melatonin.
A vitamin-enriched supplement, such as XTKO from Xyience, could help. If you're not getting enough vitamin B-6, magnesium and zinc in your diet, your body might not be producing enough melatonin and serotonin.
Along with these nutrients, XTKO contains gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, an amino acid that plays a role in normal sleep function; and potassium citrate, because potassium deficiencies often manifest as insomnia. This powdered drink mix, combined with hot water and taken at bedtime, is a natural aide to the body's rest and recovery processes.
A lot of factors trigger sleep disorders. Working irregular hours throws off your sleep patterns, making you drowsy during the day and giving you fitful sleep at night. A change in medications disrupts sleep, as can stress, use of alcohol or nicotine.
Simple changes to your routine, such as finding a way to relax before bedtime, can help you alter your sleep patterns naturally. Warm milk or a hot cup of herbal tea may also do the trick.
By: Rick Young
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