Insomnia Remedy News: Restless Leg Syndrome Linked to Magnesium Deficiency

Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is a form of insomnia characterized by an overwhelming urge to move the legs when they are at rest, especially during sleep. RLS affects about 10% of the people in the U.S. It runs in families and may have a genetic component. Recent research has found that people with restless leg syndrome are deficient in the mineral magnesium.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, almost six out of ten Americans report having insomnia and sleep problems at least a few nights a week. Other types of insomnia include sleep apnea, which involves interrupted breathing and snoring during the night; narcolepsy – which causes people to fall asleep throughout the daytime; insomnia from hormone fluctuations such as with menstruation or menopause; and insomnia from the use of medications, caffeine or alcohol.

Those who have restless leg syndrome experience unpleasant sensations in the legs described as creeping, crawling, tingling, pulling, or painful. These sensations usually occur in the calf area but may be felt anywhere from the thigh to the ankle. People with RLS often experience chronic insomnia and sleeplessness due to the strong urge to walk or do other activities to relieve the sensations in their legs.

In one study from the Romanian Journal of Neurology and Psychiatry, researchers conducted biochemical and neurological tests in 10 cases of restless leg syndrome. The investigators reported important disorders of sleep organization. They found agitated sleep with frequent periods of nighttime awakenings and a decrease of the duration and percentage of the deeper rapid eye movement (REM) sleep – also found in other forms of insomnia caused by magnesium deficiency. (1)

According to the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s Human Nutrition Research Center in North Dakota, “Magnesium plays a key role in the body’s chemistry that regulates sleep. This may be why persons with long-term lack of sleep, or abnormal brain waves during deep sleep, often have low magnesium in their blood….Magnesium treatment increased deep sleep and improved brain waves during sleep in 12 elderly subjects. Magnesium treatment also decreased time to fall asleep and improved sleep quality of 11 alcoholic patients who often have a low magnesium status.”

Regarding the use of a nutritional sleep remedy containing magnesium for relief of restless leg syndrome and other sleep problems, certain formulas are more effective than others. The combination of minerals included and the presence of cofactors in the product are key. Formulas should contain a 2 to 1 ratio of calcium to magnesium. The original research on this recommended ratio appeared in 1935 in the Journal of Physiological Reviews (2) and is made on the basis of long-term metabolic studies in men and women.

One natural insomnia remedy showing good results is Sleep Minerals II, made by Nutrition Breakthroughs in Glendale, CA. This sleep remedy contains six types of calcium, three forms of magnesium, boron, Vitamin D, Vitamin K and horsetail herb – all combined in a softgel with carrier oils. Oils such as evening primrose have been shown to increase mineral absorption, reduce calcium excretion, and increase bone density.

Sleep Minerals II has had beneficial results with relieving restless leg syndrome. Ali M. of Istanbul Turkey says: “I have been a pharmacist in Istanbul Turkey for almost 40 years and I also work as a consultant in food supplements. I suffer from restless leg syndrome at night. I recently tried your Sleep Minerals II and it had an astonishing beneficial result. My youngest brother, who is also a pharmacist, also suffers from restless leg syndrome. He tried the Sleep Minerals II with the same benefits. My mother aged 92 was complaining of sleep problems and insomnia. She also tried it and the result was again successful. If I hadn’t experienced it myself, I would have found it hard to believe.”

Many people suffer from restless leg syndrome and some sources have called it an incurable disease. Regular use of the right kind of mineral supplement just might provide the needed relief.

For more details on Sleep Minerals II visit: Nutrition Breakthroughs

References:

1: Clinical, EEG, electromyographic and polysomnographic studies in restless legs syndrome caused by magnesium deficiency. Rom J Neurol Psychiatry.1993 Jan-Mar; 31(1):55-61. PubMed PMID: 8363978.

2. Schmidt C.L.A., Greenberg D.M., Physiol Rev, 15: 297.

Natural Remedies for Night Sweats, Hot Flashes and Insomnia in Menopause: Part 2

Over one billion women in the world are age 50 or older, with the average age of menopause being 51 ½. When a woman reaches menopause, she arrives at a time of life with more freedoms. It’s the end of her monthly menstrual bleeding, and the beginning of a time when her wisdom and experience can lead her to new and fulfilling horizons. One third of a woman’s life is lived after menopause.

However, for many women, the steep drop in estrogen and progesterone that ends the menstrual cycle can also lead to menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, migraine headaches, anxiety, fatigue, bone loss, and insomnia . This second article in the series brings to light new research on additional natural remedies that can ease menopause and support women in enjoying their liberty and creativity.

A hot flash, also called hot flush, is a sudden feeling of warmth and often a breakout of sweating in the upper half of the body. When they occur at night, they are called night sweats. Hot flashes are caused by a reduced function in the body’s temperature regulation, which is brought about by changing hormone levels. When estrogen in women, or testosterone in men is depleted, a rapid increase in skin temperature can occur due to dilatation (widening) of the skin blood vessels — and it can become frequent. This process of blood vessel dilation is the body’s way to release the heat.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) drugs can provide some relief for hot flashes and night sweats, but at a considerable price. The Women’s Health Initiative study, which followed 16,608 women being given hormone replacement therapy, discovered a high risk of breast cancer, coronary heart disease, and stroke from the use of these drugs.

One natural remedy proven in a research study to relieve hot flashes may come as a surprise to some, as it is such a well-known, widely used vitamin with many benefits. It’s the famous vitamin C. The study was called “Non-Hormonal Control of Vaso-Motor Flushing in Menopausal Patients”, published in the journal: “Chicago Medicine.” Vasomotor refers to the nerves and muscles causing blood vessels to constrict or dilate. Extensive research indicates that vitamin C strengthens blood vessel membranes and acts as a potent antioxidant.

In the vitamin C study, A total of 94 patients were studied, all of who had reached menopause. They were given 200 milligrams of vitamin C and 200 milligrams of bioflavonoids six times daily. Therefore each subject received 1200 mg of both the bioflavonoids and vitamin C each day. The results: 67% of the subjects reported complete relief from hot flashes and 21% reported partial relief, giving this combination an overall 88% success rate.

And another remedy: Exercise may be one of the most effective ways to reduce both hot flashes as well as heart trouble. From the April 2007 issue of the Annals of Behavioral Medicine comes a study from Steriani Elavsky, a kinesiologist. Kinesiology is the study of human movement and motion. The study included 164 menopausal women in their 50’s who were experiencing hot flashes and insomnia. They were put into three different groups – walkers, yoga-doers and sedentary non-exercisers, and were studied for four months.

Elavsky concluded: “We found a significant association between changes in cardiorespiratory (heart and lung) fitness and changes in menopausal symptoms. Women who experienced decreases in menopausal symptoms in the study also experienced improvements in all positive mental health and quality-of-life outcomes.”

Night sweats and hot flashes can become a form of insomnia in which a woman wakes up drenched in sweat and unable to sleep. Regarding mineral deficiency at the time of menopause, nutritionist Adelle Davis says, “The amount of calcium in a woman’s blood parallels the activity of the ovaries. During the menopause, the lack of ovarian hormones (estrogen and progesterone) can cause severe calcium deficiency symptoms to occur, including irritability, hot flashes, night sweats, leg cramps, and insomnia. These problems can be easily overcome if the intakes of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D are all generously increased and are well absorbed.”

One sleep remedy becoming popular among menopausal women is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs. This natural sleep aid contains six different types of calcium, three types of magnesium, Vitamin D, Vitamin K, boron and horse tail herb. The ingredients are formulated with carrier oils such as evening primrose, an oil that has been shown to increase mineral absorption, reduce calcium excretion, and increase bone density.

Corrine E. of Alberta Canada says: “I have used many types of sleeping pills during the last 20 to 25 years to try to help cope with chronic insomnia, and none of them helped me for as long or as consistently as Sleep Minerals II. I want you to know that this insomnia remedy has made a big difference for me. I am on my third bottle. I ran out between the first and second and realized just how much it was helping me. I am so glad I decided to try this product”.

Natural remedies continue to be a force to be reckoned with in our quest for good health at menopause.

For more information on Sleep Minerals II, visit http://www.nutritionbreakthroughs.com/html/sleep_remedy_for_insomnia_help.html

Insomnia in Teenagers – Studies, Remedies and Tips

Teenagers are a special breed, having to face all the challenges of being in an in-between stage of life; not quite a child anymore and not yet an adult. Along with an acceleration of social interests and activities, they also sustain accelerated physical growth and increased nutritional needs. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, 90% of teen girls and 70% of teen boys aren’t getting enough calcium. Their bones are growing the fastest during the teen years and they need more calcium than at any other time of life. The calcium deficiency can translate into irritability, nervous tension, hyperactivity, and insomnia.

Adelle Davis was the first nutritionist to base her recommendations on scientific research studies. She says: “If these hyperactive kids were recognized as victims of malnutrition and given, instead of drugs, a completely adequate diet, especially high in calcium, magnesium, and vitamins B6 and D; the majority might soon be as relaxed as sacks of cotton, their minds far more alert, their energies restored to normal. I have seen it happen many, many times.”

To shed some light on teenage sleeping habits, a study was published in the April 2010 issue of the Journal of Adolescent Health. Researchers found that two-thirds of teenage high school students are sleeping less than they need to, when they actually need 9.5 hours of sleep. Danice Eaton, author of the study and a research scientist in Atlanta said, “….Research (on teens) has shown that a lack of sleep can increase depression, negative physical health, headaches, poor school performance, school absenteeism and drowsy driving.”

There is a correlation between electronics use and insomnia in teens. A study from the Journal of Pediatrics published a survey of Philadelphia-area teens. It was found that two-thirds had a television in their bedroom, one third had a computer, 90% had their own cell phone and 79% had a personal music device. “These technological devices activate the mind. It’s like having a stressful work conversation just before getting into bed,” said Dr. Jonathan Pletcher, at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Dr. Pletcher doesn’t recommend sleep medication for teens, saying that, “The risks for this age group far outweigh the benefits.” He recommends shutting down the computer, TV, and cell phone well before bedtime and doing some relaxing and calming activities before bed.

Due to a deficiency of crucial minerals at the teenage time of life, calcium and magnesium supplements can be an effective sleep remedy. One natural insomnia remedy that’s gaining in popularity for all ages is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs. It contains six forms of calcium, three forms of magnesium, boron, Vitamin D and Vitamin K, all combined in a rapidly absorbed softgel. One mother of a teenage son who was suffering with insomnia, was grateful to find Sleep Minerals II. She says: “Our son began to have trouble sleeping about a year and a half ago. He was up until 2:00 a.m., and then he got up at 5:00. This continued for quite a while. He was miserable and so were we. He’s an athlete and a student and we just couldn’t live like this.”

“We had spent hundreds of dollars on testing and supplements with a naturopath and it just didn’t work. I searched on the Internet and found Sleep Minerals II. I thought to myself, ‘I’ll give it a try, there’s nothing harmful in it’. Well, from the get-go it helped Mitchell sleep better. He’s been using it as a sleep remedy for some time now. He is sleeping well and is so happy and healthy. He’s a normal teenager again. I just can’t say enough about what this product has done for us.”

Besides supplementing with key minerals, there are additional tips to help teens sleep better. Here is a summary from the Mayo Clinic and National Sleep Foundation:

– Consuming caffeine close to bedtime can interfere with one’s sleep, so avoid coffee, tea, soda pop and chocolate late in the afternoon. Nicotine and alcohol will also interfere with sleep.
– Limit stimulating activities and the use of electronics right before bedtime.
– Reduce extracurricular activities. Sometimes teens are overextended and participate in too many after-school activities, too late into the evening.
– Practice relaxing and calming activities before going to bed. For example, do gentle stretches, take a warm bath, or read a pleasant book.
– Make the bedroom a sleep haven. Keep it cool, quiet and dark. If needed, get eyeshades, earplugs, and blackout curtains. Let in the bright light in the morning to signal the body to wake up.
– Get regular exercise during the day, but not closer than 3 hours before bedtime.
– Establish a regular bedtime and wake-time schedule and stick to it, coming as close to it as possible on the weekends. A consistent sleep schedule makes it easier to fall asleep.

Let’s help our teens get the sleep and nutrition they need!

For more information on Sleep Minerals II, visit Nutrition Breakthroughs.

Sleep Remedy Studies on Melatonin-Rich Foods

With the National Sleep Foundation reporting that six out of ten Americans suffer with insomnia several nights a week and 25% of the U.S. population uses sleeping drugs (known as “hypnotics”), an increasing number people these days are looking for natural sleep remedies. In recent research studies, it was discovered that both walnuts and tart cherries contain significant levels of the natural sleep hormone melatonin, and may therefore be a natural, food-based way to get a better night’s sleep.

Russel Reiter, Ph.D., a professor of cellular biology at the University of Texas Health Science Center says, “Relatively few foods have been examined for their melatonin content. Our studies demonstrate that walnuts contain melatonin, that it is absorbed when it is eaten, and that it improves our ability to resist oxidative stress caused by toxic molecules called free radicals. Walnuts also contain large amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to inhibit certain types of cancer and to keep the heart healthy.”

Melatonin is best known as a sleep remedy. It is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pineal gland, located in the center of the brain. At night or in the dark, the pineal gland releases melatonin to regulate the sleep cycle. The body produces less melatonin with advancing age. While melatonin doesn’t require a prescription, it is a potent hormone. If too much is taken, it can make it more difficult to wake up and may result in daytime grogginess. It is best used under the supervision of a doctor. Nutritionists recommend that melatonin is best consumed as part of a whole food or whole food supplement.

In another study done at the University Of Texas Health Science Center, researchers discovered that the tart “Montmorency” cherry also contains a significant level of melatonin. Cherries are available in concentrated supplement form and can be taken in the evening to improve the quality of sleep. Other ways cherries can be eaten include dried cherries, frozen cherries and cherry juice. You can add dried cherries to yogurt, granola, salads and baked foods. Cherry juice should be diluted with water or sparkling water as it is high in natural sugars.

The brain can also be assisted in its melatonin production by taking calcium supplements. William Sears, M.D. writes: “Calcium helps the brain use the amino acid tryptophan to manufacture the sleep-inducing substance melatonin. This explains why dairy products, which contain both tryptophan and calcium, are one of the top sleep-inducing foods.” It’s important to note that a balanced ratio of calcium and magnesium is important to overall health, and that these two minerals should be taken together for best results.

Digestibility and absorption are important factors in selecting the best forms of calcium and magnesium to use. For example, Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs is a natural sleep remedy that contains six types of calcium, three forms of magnesium, boron, Vitamin D, Vitamin K and horsetail herb — all combined in a softgel with carrier oils. Oils such as evening primrose have been shown to increase mineral absorption, reduce calcium excretion, and increase bone density.

Veronica R. of British Columbia, Canada says, ”Sleep Minerals II has worked wonders for me. Before I started taking it, I would fall asleep and then wake up in the middle of the night and not be able to get back to sleep. Now I take these and have had no problems going back to sleep. I don’t have to be awake for 2 or 3 hours every night. I’m so happy I took the chance to try it. I don’t like taking over-the-counter drugs. With Sleep Minerals II, I don’t feel sleepy at all during the day.”

So, if insomnia and sleeplessness have troubled you, be sure to keep your cupboard stocked with natural sleep remedies and use them well to make insomnia a thing of the past!

For more information on Sleep Minerals II, visit http://www.nutritionbreakthroughs.com/html/sleep_remedy_for_insomnia_help.html

Introducing Sleep Minerals II, A Powerful Natural Insomnia Remedy

Nutrition Breakthroughs of Glendale, California has announced Sleep Minerals II, a potent natural weapon in the war against insomnia and its many side effects. This next generation of Sleep Minerals features fast absorbing forms of nature’s best-known minerals for relaxation – calcium and magnesium. Sleep Minerals II arrives on the heels of a National Sleep Foundation poll which reports that American insomnia rates have increased from 51% to 64% in the last few years.

According to the National Institutes of Health, insomnia can wreak havoc on the health and lives of its sufferers, causing excessive daytime sleepiness and extreme lack of energy.  The sleep-deprived can become irritable and depressed and may have trouble focusing on tasks, paying attention, learning and remembering.  Insomnia can contribute to accidents with machinery, accidents from poor balance, and accidents on the road while driving.

The use of prescription sleeping drugs has steadily increased, and most sleeping pills, especially when taken over long periods of time, stay in the bloodstream, give a hangover effect the next day and beyond, and impair performance on the job and at home.  Insomnia is a major problem for millions of Americans, with 25% of the U.S. using sleeping drugs in an effort to get some rest.  Because of the drug side effects, an increasing number of people are reaching out to find an effective insomnia remedy .

Sleep Minerals II has stepped forward as a potent natural alternative.  It can help the restless sleep whether they are unable to fall asleep at the beginning of the night, or they habitually wake up in the middle of the night and can’t get back to sleep.  It is an effective insomnia remedy due to its unique combination of ingredients.  It contains highly absorbable forms of minerals, including six types of calcium (carbonate, citrate, gluconate, aspartate, malate, micronized hydroxyapatite), three forms of magnesium (oxide, aspartate, citrate), boron, Vitamin D, Vitamin K and horsetail herb – all combined in a softgel with carrier oils.  Oils such as evening primrose have been shown to increase mineral absorption, reduce calcium excretion, and increase bone density.

Calcium is directly related to our cycles of sleep. One study found that calcium levels were higher during some of the deepest levels of sleep, such as the rapid eye movement (REM) phase.  Calcium is one of the few minerals that acts as a natural sedative, because it causes the release of the sleep-inducing amino acid tryptophan. The well-known nutritionist Adelle Davis says: “A calcium deficiency often shows itself by insomnia, another form of an inability to relax. The harm done by sleeping tablets, to say nothing of the thousands of dollars spent on them, could largely be avoided if the calcium intake were adequate.”

Insomnia is also one of the main symptoms of a chronic magnesium deficiency. Sleep in magnesium deficiency is usually agitated with frequent nighttime awakenings. On the other hand, a high magnesium diet has been found to be associated with deeper, less interrupted sleep. This was proven in a study done by James Penland at the Human Nutrition Research Center called “Effects of trace element nutrition on sleep patterns in adult women.”

However, no matter how many studies support the use of these ingredients and their unique formulation, the proof is in the pudding.  Lyn K. of Los Angeles, CA. says “I’ve had chronic insomnia for some years now and had been taking other calcium products to help with my sleep. None have worked as effectively or consistently as Sleep Minerals II. I can count on it whenever I need help falling asleep at night or going back to sleep during the night. This is what sets it apart from the rest – it works reliably. And in my life, I need to be well-rested 7 days a week, so I call this product my ‘Sleep Insurance’.  It also eases my menopause symptoms, evens out my hormonal changes, and seems to put my body into a healthy balance.”

Veronica R. of British Columbia, Canada says: “This product has worked wonders for me. Before I started taking it, I would fall asleep and wake up in the middle of the night and not be able to get back to sleep (after going to the bathroom). When I got the product, I started taking two of them, and have had no problems going back to sleep. Now I don’t have to be awake for two or three hours every night. I’m so happy I took the chance to try it. I don’t like taking over-the-counter drugs. With Sleep Minerals II, I don’t feel sleepy at all during the day.”

So if you or someone you love is suffering with sleeplessness and insomnia, try putting some Sleep Minerals II into your arsenal of effective natural remedies.

For more information on Sleep Minerals II visit the insomnia remedy web page or the Nutrition Breakthroughs web site.

Preserve your Sleep – Daylight Savings Time is Sunday 3-14-10

Daylight savings time takes place this Sunday night March 14^th. The time shifts ahead one hour ahead at 2:00 a.m.  Remember to change your clocks and watches!  For many Americans, this may mean getting an hour less sleep and possibly suffering with grogginess and low energy for several days after. Here are some simple tips to help avoid this and in general, to help keep your sleep, energy and well being at a good level:

• Starting Sunday, try to plan your day so you can go to sleep an hour earlier. This is the best method for preventing a significant sleep loss. If Sunday isn’t possible or you find out about daylight savings time after Sunday, do it on Monday night and keep it up as needed in order to get enough sleep.
• The quality and depth of your sleep can make a big difference and help you make the most of every minute you’re asleep. Light sleep is less fulfilling and leaves you wanting and needing more.
• To sleep more deeply, take at least one walk per day. For a 20-minute walk, you can head out in one direction for 10 minutes and then turn around and walk back for the last 10. Try to alternate your routes so you see a variety of different scenery.
• Highly absorbable, fast-acting forms of calcium and magnesium are known to increase deep sleep. Calcium levels are highest during the deepest levels of sleep, such as the rapid eye movement (REM) phase. Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs is a good insomnia remedy and with continued use, can even help one to need a bit less sleep over time as their sleep will become deeper.
• Consider turning off your computer and TV at least 30 minutes before bed time so you can unwind, take your attention off of screens, and have an easier time relaxing while you’re preparing for bed. Leave the computers and cell phones out of the bedroom.
• Make yourself as comfortable as possible in your sleeping environment by keeping the room quiet, dark, and cool. Wear things that help you sleep better (some like to wear socks) and use a comfortable mattress and pillow.
• When you feel you’ve had enough sleep, get right out of bed and avoid spending more time in bed than needed.
• If you have habitual sleeplessness, work to reduce your intake of caffeine, nicotine and alcohol.

Here’s to your good sleep, during daylight savings time and beyond!

For more information on Sleep Minerals II, visit http://www.nutritionbreakthroughs.com/html/insomnia_remedy_for_restful__d.html
or http://www.nutritionbreakthroughs.com 

Magnesium Deficiency in Older Adults May Contribute to Insomnia, Osteoporosis, and Diabetes

A recent Gallup Poll survey found that magnesium consumption decreases as we age, with 79% of adults fifty-five and over reportedly eating below the recommended dietary allowance of magnesium.  A National Institutes of Health (NIH) fact sheet says that older adults are at increased risk of magnesium deficiency due to their reduced ability to absorb minerals. The diseases to which the elderly are vulnerable, and some of the drugs used in therapy, also contribute to magnesium loss.

“The prevalence of heart disease, diabetes and even leg cramps increases dramatically among older persons, and these are all health conditions in which magnesium deficiency has been found,” said Richard Rivlin, M.D., Chief of the Nutrition Division at New York Hospital, Cornell Medical Center.

Diabetes

Researchers at the Harvard School of Public Health evaluated the dietary intake of specific nutrients for more than 85,000 women and more than 42,000 men, in data supplied for over 18 years.  They found that the men and women whose diets included the largest amounts of magnesium were the least likely to develop type 2 diabetes.  Most of the participants in the study consumed magnesium through foods, such as whole grains, nuts and green leafy vegetables.

Osteoporosis

A lack of magnesium is also associated with osteoporosis.  Bone health is supported by many factors, most notably calcium and vitamin D. However, some evidence suggests that magnesium deficiency may be an additional risk factor for postmenopausal osteoporosis.  This may be due to the fact that magnesium deficiency alters calcium metabolism.  In one study of older adults, a greater magnesium intake maintained bone mineral density to a higher degree than a lower intake.

Insomnia Remedy

A National Sleep Foundation poll found that 67% of older adults report having frequent sleep problems.  This translates to 37 million older adults in the U.S. having some form of insomnia.  Particularly for older people, a possible underlying nutritional cause of insomnia may be a deficiency of certain minerals.  James F. Balch, M.D., author of Prescription for Nutritional Healing, writes: “A lack of the nutrients calcium and magnesium will cause you to wake up after a few hours and not be able to return to sleep.”

Types of Magnesium

Certain forms of magnesium are more digestible than others – an important factor because our digestive enzymes and our ability to absorb nutrients lessen with age.  Magnesium citrate is a unique form of magnesium in which the magnesium is bonded with citric acid to make it more absorbable.  Magnesium aspartate is another form that is carried into the body more fully.  It is made by binding the mineral to an amino acid (aspartic acid).

Supplements with Magnesium

The combination of minerals included in a supplement and the presence of vitamin cofactors (such as vitamin D and K) are key. Formulas should contain a 2 to 1 ratio of calcium to magnesium. The original research on this recommended ratio appeared in 1935 in the Journal of Physiological Reviews.  In addition, a softgel form is more digestible than tablets.  Softgels formulated with carrier oils such as evening primrose have been shown to increase mineral absorption, reduce calcium excretion, and increase bone density. 

One formula that has these qualities is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs. Sleep Minerals II is an insomnia remedy which contains six forms of calcium, three forms of magnesium (including the citrate and aspartate forms), boron, Vitamin D, Vitamin K and horsetail herb – all combined in a softgel with carrier oils.

Lyn K. of Los Angeles, CA. says “I’ve had chronic insomnia for some years now and had been taking other mineral-based insomnia remedies to help with my sleep. No remedy has worked as effectively or consistently as Sleep Minerals II. I can count on it whenever I need help falling asleep at night or going back to sleep in the middle of the night. This is what sets it apart from the rest – it works reliably. And in my life, I need to be well-rested 7 days a week, so I call this product my ‘Sleep Insurance’. It also eases my menopause symptoms, evens out my hormonal changes, and seems to put my body into a healthy balance.”

Richard Rivlin, M.D. summed up the Gallup Poll survey results by saying: “It is clear that consumers are largely unaware of the role of magnesium — a nutrient that is essential for the function of other minerals like calcium, as well as the normal operation of the heart and muscles.”

For more information on Sleep Minerals II, visit http://www.nutritionbreakthroughs.com/html/insomnia_remedy_for_restful__d.html or
http://www.nutritionbreakthroughs.com

References:

1. Landy, Liz. “Gallup Survey Finds Majority of American Diets Lack Sufficient Magnesium – At Potential Cost to Health,” Searle News, Sept. 21, 1994

2. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements, Fact Sheet on Magnesium

3. Lopez-Ridaura, R. “Diabetes Care”, January 2004; vol 27: pp 134-140. Ruy Lopez-Ridaura, MD, Department of Nutrition, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston.

4. Tucker KL, Hannan MT, Chen H, Cupples LA, Wilson PW, Kiel DP. “Potassium, magnesium, and fruit and vegetable intakes are associated with greater bone mineral density in elderly men and women.” Am J Clin Nutr 1999;69(4):727-36.

5. National Sleep Foundation: “The 2003 Sleep in America Poll”.

Studies Confirm Best Calcium/Magnesium Ratio – Dynamic Duo Remedies Insomnia

Calcium and magnesium have long been major players in the quest for achieving vibrant health. The pioneering nutritionist Adelle Davis says: “Calcium can be as soothing as a mother, as relaxing as a sedative, and as life-saving as an oxygen tent.” And James F. Balch, M.D., author of Prescription for Nutritional Healing says: “Supplementing with magnesium helps prevent irritability, nervousness, muscle weakness, high blood pressure, and heart disease.”

Nutrition savvy consumers should know the correct way to balance calcium and magnesium when taking supplements and be aware that the two act together as a synergistic team. Deficiencies of these minerals can contribute to nervous tension, an inability to relax, and insomnia. Dr. Balch says: “A lack of the nutrients calcium and magnesium will cause you to wake up after a few hours and not be able to return to sleep.”

In a breakthrough analysis study from the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, Margaret Seelig, M.D. forwards the evidence that calcium and magnesium should be taken in a two to one ratio. Seelig says: “The Ca/Mg ratio of two to one (twice as much calcium as magnesium) has long been considered physiologic and best for normal functioning. This was confirmed on the basis of long-term metabolic studies in young men and women done by the Research Division of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.”

Seelig continues: “There is an example in Finland showing the effects of a diet which provides a high Ca/Mg intake of 4 to1, as well as high salt and alcohol intakes. This high Ca/Mg dietary ratio contributes to that country’s highest stroke and heart disease rate in the world in young and middle aged men. In Finland, this ratio of 4 to1 is common from childhood throughout life and osteoporosis is prevalent. (On the other hand), Japan, which has the most favorable Ca/Mg ratio, has the lowest incidence of heart disease.”

One way that a health-conscious consumer can find their way through the storm of conflicting nutritional advice is to base their choices on sound research studies. Adelle Davis was one of the first nutritionists to form her recommendations on scientific evidence. In her book ”Let’s Eat Right to Keep Fit”, she says: “The correct proportion appears to be approximately twice as much calcium as magnesium…Whenever a calcium supplement is used, magnesium likewise must be increased.”

An example of a well-balanced mineral supplement is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs. It is a natural insomnia remedy which contains six forms of calcium, three forms of magnesium, boron, Vitamin D and Vitamin K – all combined in a softgel with carrier oils. Oils such as evening primrose have been shown to increase mineral absorption, reduce calcium excretion, and increase bone density.

Veronica R. of British Columbia, Canada says, ” Sleep Minerals II has made a great impact on my sleeping pattern. Before taking it, most nights I would lay awake anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. That does not happen to me anymore. On top of that, Sleep Minerals II has helped me with my restless legs. I don’t like taking over-the-counter drugs. With this natural insomnia remedy, I don’t feel sleepy at all during the day. I can’t emphasize enough how Sleep Minerals II has improved the quality of my sleeping life.”

Margaret Seelig, M.D. concludes that: “Administration of calcium supplements should be accompanied by appropriate magnesium supplementation. Increasing the magnesium intake protects against the risk of magnesium deficiency.”

For more information on Sleep Minerals II, visit http://www.nutritionbreakthroughs.com/html/insomnia_remedy_for_restful__d.html or http://www.nutritionbreakthroughs.com

References:

1.Blaine Journal, January 1998, Magnesium (Mg) treatment or supplementation is often needed when calcium (Ca) intake is increased. Mildred S. Seelig. M.D.

2.Schmidt C.L.A., Greenberg D.M., Physiologic Review, 15: 297.

3. Hathaway F.W., Home Economics Research Report #19, Agricultural Research Service, Washington D.C., 1962.

4. Seelig M. S. (1964). American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 14:342.

A Comparison of Natural Insomnia Remedies from Nutrition Breakthroughs

According to a recent study on Complementary and Alternative Medicine done by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), 1.6 million American adults with insomnia have gotten a deeper, more restful night’s sleep by using natural remedies. The most widely known natural insomnia remedies for sleep are the minerals calcium and magnesium, the herb valerian root, the natural hormone melatonin, and the amino acid tryptophan.

Many adults who suffer with sleeplessness would prefer to avoid the side effects of sleep medications such as memory loss, headache, nausea, depression, dizziness, confusion, a hangover effect, and possible addiction.  Regarding natural alternatives, the NIH study found that ”A majority of people who used natural therapies for their insomnia reported they were helpful.”

In modern herbal medicine, Valerian is the most common herb used for insomnia. Valerian root can make getting to sleep easier and is also used for nervous tension and anxiety. Valerian is often combined with other mildly sedating herbs like chamomile, hops, passion flower and lemon balm. Valerian’s most common side effects are drowsiness and an inability to remain alert.  It may be unsafe to take it while driving or operating heavy machinery and should not be consumed along with alcohol or sedative drugs.

Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pineal gland, which is located in the center of the brain. At night or in the dark, the pineal gland releases melatonin to regulate the sleep cycle. The body produces less melatonin with advancing age.  While melatonin doesn’t require a prescription, it is a potent hormone.  If too much is taken, it can make it more difficult to wake up in the morning and may result in daytime grogginess.  It is best used under the supervision of a doctor.

Tryptophan is an amino acid (a component of protein) that is found in turkey, tuna, bananas, dates, oats and dairy products. It has been used for people with insomnia because it is converted into serotonin, a chemical messenger in the brain that’s involved in mood, appetite and sleep.

A related compound to tryptophan that occurs naturally in the body is 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). This may also be helpful for insomnia.  Possible side effects with 5-HTP include nausea, stomach upset and decreased sex drive. It should not be used along with antidepressant drugs.

The minerals calcium and magnesium may be the best choice for insomnia.  They are proven natural relaxants and provide many additional health benefits. Calcium is directly related to our cycles of sleep. One study found that calcium levels were higher during the deeper levels of sleep, such as the rapid eye movement (REM) phase.  Calcium causes the release of the sleep-inducing amino acid tryptophan.

According to the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture’s Human Nutrition Research Center, “Magnesium plays a key role in the body’s chemistry that regulates sleep. This may be why persons with long-term lack of sleep, or abnormal brain waves during deep sleep, often have low magnesium in their blood.”  Besides being an insomnia remedy, magnesium has also been shown to support heart health, ease migraine headaches, and help with kidney stones and diabetes.

The benefits of calcium include strengthening bones, lowering blood pressure, alleviating symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, and protecting against colon cancer. One possible side effect from taking too much calcium or magnesium is diarrhea, at which point less can be used.

Digestibility and absorption are important factors in selecting the best forms of calcium and magnesium to use. Softgels are more absorbable and go to work more rapidly than tablets.  For example, Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs is a natural insomnia remedy that contains six types of calcium, three forms of magnesium, boron, Vitamin D, Vitamin K and horsetail herb — all combined in a softgel with carrier oils. Oils such as evening primrose have been shown to increase mineral absorption, reduce calcium excretion, and increase bone density.

Veronica R. of British Columbia, Canada says, ” Sleep Minerals II has made a great impact on my sleeping pattern. Before taking it, most nights I would lay awake anywhere from 2 to 4 hours. That does not happen to me anymore. On top of that, Sleep Minerals II has helped me with my restless legs. I don’t like taking over-the-counter drugs. With this insomnia remedy, I don’t feel sleepy at all during the day. I can’t emphasize enough how Sleep Minerals II has improved the quality of my sleeping life.”

The NIH study confirms that millions of people are benefiting from natural remedies for insomnia. Indeed, these are far better than putting a drug-based, potentially addictive chemical into your body. One good tip is to seek a remedy that not only helps you sleep more deeply, but also has additional benefits to your overall health.

For more information on Sleep Minerals II, visit http://www.nutritionbreakthroughs.com/html/insomnia_remedy_for_restful__d.html

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With 25% of the U.S. Suffering Side Effects from Sleep Drugs, Natural Insomnia Remedies are Needed

Sleeplessness is a big problem in America. According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), almost six out of ten Americans report having insomnia at least a few nights weekly. In an effort to combat this, as many as 25 percent of the people in the United States use medications to help them sleep.

The use of prescription sleeping drugs, such as Ambien, Lunesta and Sonata, has been steadily increasing. Global sales for all sleeping pills, called hypnotics, will top $5 billion in the next several years. Most sleeping pills, especially when taken over long periods of time, stay in the bloodstream and give a hangover effect the next day and beyond. They impair memory, reduce performance on the job and at home, and contribute to machine and car accidents.

From a nutritional perspective, several research studies have shown certain minerals to be effective alternatives to help people fall asleep and stay asleep through the night. James F. Balch, M.D., author of Prescription for Nutritional Healing, writes: “A lack of the nutrients calcium and magnesium will cause you to wake up after a few hours and not be able to return to sleep.”

The pioneering nutritionist Adelle Davis discusses minerals as an insomnia remedy in her book Let’s Get Well. She says: “A calcium deficiency often shows itself by insomnia, another form of an inability to relax. The harm done by sleeping tablets, to say nothing of the billions of dollars spent on them, could largely be avoided if the calcium intake were adequate.” Regarding magnesium, Davis says: “Hundreds of recent studies indicate that almost everyone, especially ill persons, is deficient in magnesium. Probably no other single deficiency is so responsible for the widespread use of tranquilizers.”

Calcium is directly related to our cycles of sleep. In one study, published in the European Neurology Journal, researchers found that calcium levels in the body are higher during some of the deepest levels of sleep, such as the rapid eye movement (REM) phase. The study concluded that disturbances in sleep, especially the absence of REM deep sleep or disturbed REM sleep, are related to a calcium deficiency. Restoration to the normal course of sleep was achieved following the normalization of the blood calcium level.

In magnesium deficiency, chronic insomnia is one of the main, central symptoms. Sleep is usually agitated with frequent nighttime awakenings. On the other hand, a high magnesium diet has been found to be associated with deeper, less interrupted sleep. This was proven in a study done by James Penland at the Human Nutrition Research Center in North Dakota. The study was titled “Effects of trace element nutrition on sleep patterns in adult women.” It’s important to note that a balanced ratio of calcium and magnesium is beneficial to overall health, and that these two minerals should be taken together in a 2 to 1 ratio for best results.

Jobee Knight, a nutritional researcher and founder of Nutrition Breakthroughs in Glendale, CA., is someone who fought her own battle against sleeplessness and insomnia. She decided to put her background to use by searching out effective natural ingredients for relaxation and deeper sleep. The result was Sleep Minerals II, a natural insomnia remedy which contains six forms of calcium, three forms of magnesium, boron, Vitamin D, Vitamin K and horsetail herb – all combined in a softgel with carrier oils. Oils such as evening primrose have been shown to increase mineral absorption, reduce calcium excretion, and increase bone density.

Veronica R., British Columbia, Canada says: “This product has worked wonders for me. Before I started taking it, I would fall asleep and wake up in the middle of the night and not be able to get back to sleep. When I got the product, I started taking two of them, and have had no problems going back to sleep. Now I don’t have to be awake for two or three hours every night. I’m so happy I took the chance to try it. I don’t like taking over-the-counter drugs. With Sleep Minerals II, I don’t feel sleepy at all during the day.”

Ali M. of Istanbul Turkey says: “I have been a pharmacist in Istanbul Turkey for almost 40 years, and I also work as a consultant in food supplements. I suffer from restless leg syndrome at night. I recently tried your Sleep Minerals II and it had an astonishing beneficial result. My youngest brother, who is also a pharmacist, suffers from restless leg syndrome too. He tried the Sleep Minerals II with the same astonishing result. My mother aged 92 was complaining of sleep problems. She also tried it and the result was again amazing.”

Sleeping drugs can wreak havoc on one’s health and well-being. The right blend of natural minerals can be an effective natural insomnia remedy that helps the sleepless get some good rest.

For more information on Sleep Minerals II, visit http://www.nutritionbreakthroughs.com/html/insomnia_remedy_for_restful__d.html