Melatonin Metabolism
In order for us to get to sleep we need to reduce cortisol and increase melatonin production and release at night.
Melatonin is the neurotransmitter responsible for getting us to sleep.
We make melatonin from an amino acid called tryptophan through a series of chemical reaction for which certain nutrients are essential.
GABA Metabolism
GABA is the neurotransmitter responsible to keep us asleep. It also helps regulate our different sleep stages so it is of crucial importance for a night of quality sleep.
GABA also helps to induce you into a calming state both physically and mentally by helping your muscles and brain relax.
Some Of The Ingredients
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Passionflower Extract
Passionflower extract is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used for various medicinal purposes, including its potential benefits for stress and sleep. While research on its efficacy is ongoing, some studies suggest the following potential benefits:
- Anxiolytic (Anti-Anxiety) Properties: Passionflower extract may have calming effects on the central nervous system, which could help alleviate symptoms of anxiety. Some compounds in passionflower are believed to interact with receptors in the brain associated with anxiety.
- Improved Sleep Quality: Passionflower is often used as a natural remedy for insomnia. It may help improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. Some studies suggest that passionflower extract might be as effective as certain pharmaceutical drugs in promoting better sleep.
- GABA Regulation: Passionflower extract is believed to influence gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels in the brain. GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the nervous system, potentially contributing to reduced anxiety and better sleep.
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Chronic stress can lead to inflammation in the body, which may contribute to various health issues. Some compounds found in passionflower have been studied for their anti-inflammatory properties, which might indirectly contribute to stress reduction.
- Mild Sedative Effects: The sedative effects of passionflower may help induce a sense of calmness and relaxation, making it easier for individuals to fall asleep. This sedative action is thought to be due to the interaction with certain receptors in the brain.
- Natural Muscle Relaxant: Passionflower has been traditionally used as a muscle relaxant. This may contribute to its ability to induce a state of physical and mental relaxation, further supporting better sleep.
- Cortisol Patterns: Improved sleep quality, which passionflower may facilitate, is associated with healthier cortisol patterns. Disrupted sleep can lead to elevated cortisol levels, and interventions that promote better sleep may help regulate cortisol secretion.
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Magnesium Biglycinate
Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in various physiological processes in the body, and it plays a role in sleep regulation and stress management. Magnesium biglycinate is a specific form of magnesium that is bound to the amino acid glycine. Here are some potential benefits of magnesium biglycinate on sleep and cortisol regulation:
- Improved Sleep Quality: Magnesium is known for its relaxing properties, and adequate levels of magnesium in the body may contribute to improved sleep quality. Magnesium plays a role in the regulation of neurotransmitters, such as GABA, which have calming effects on the nervous system.
- Muscle Relaxation: Magnesium is a natural muscle relaxant, and its presence in the body may help reduce muscle tension and promote relaxation. This muscle-relaxing effect can contribute to a sense of calmness, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Regulation of Cortisol Levels: Magnesium may have a modulating effect on the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates the release of cortisol. Adequate magnesium levels may help prevent excessive cortisol release in response to stress, contributing to a more balanced stress response.
- Glycine's Role in Sleep: Magnesium biglycinate includes glycine, an amino acid with its own sleep-promoting properties. Glycine has been studied for its ability to improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep. The combination of magnesium and glycine in this form may enhance their individual sleep-related benefits.
- Stress Reduction: Chronic stress can deplete magnesium levels in the body. Supplementing with magnesium may help replenish these levels and support the body's ability to cope with stress. By reducing stress, magnesium may indirectly contribute to the regulation of cortisol levels.
- Nervous System Support: Magnesium is involved in the proper functioning of the nervous system, and its deficiency has been associated with symptoms such as anxiety and restlessness. By supporting the nervous system, magnesium may contribute to a calmer state conducive to better sleep.
- Maintenance of Healthy Circadian Rhythms: Magnesium is involved in the regulation of the body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm. A balanced circadian rhythm is crucial for the proper timing of sleep and wake cycles. Magnesium's influence on the circadian system may contribute to a more regular sleep-wake pattern.
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Valerian Root Extract
Valerian root is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used to address sleep-related issues and has also been explored for its potential effects on cortisol, the stress hormone. While research on valerian root is ongoing and not entirely conclusive, some potential benefits include:
- Improved Sleep Quality: Valerian root is often used as a natural sleep aid. It contains compounds that may interact with GABA receptors in the brain, leading to a calming effect. This can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality.
- Reduced Sleep Latency: Sleep latency refers to the time it takes to fall asleep. Some studies suggest that valerian root may reduce the time it takes to initiate sleep, making it potentially beneficial for individuals who struggle with insomnia or difficulty falling asleep.
- Calming Effect on the Nervous System: Valerian root has mild sedative properties that may contribute to its calming effect on the nervous system. By promoting relaxation, it may help individuals achieve a more restful sleep.
- Modulation of GABA Activity: GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that plays a role in calming the central nervous system. Valerian root is believed to influence GABA activity, contributing to its anxiolytic and sedative effects.
- Potential Cortisol Regulation: Some studies suggest that valerian root may have a modulating effect on cortisol levels. By promoting relaxation and reducing stress, valerian root may indirectly contribute to the regulation of cortisol, helping to manage the body's stress response.
- Antioxidant Properties: Valerian root contains antioxidants that may have protective effects on cells, including those in the brain. While the exact relationship between antioxidants and sleep/cortisol is complex, overall cellular health may indirectly contribute to improved sleep and stress management.
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L-Theanine
L-theanine is an amino acid primarily found in tea leaves, particularly in green tea. It has gained attention for its potential benefits on sleep and stress management. Here are some potential benefits of L-theanine on sleep and cortisol:
- Promotion of Relaxation: L-theanine has been reported to promote relaxation without causing sedation. It can cross the blood-brain barrier and may increase the levels of certain neurotransmitters, including gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA has calming effects on the nervous system, contributing to a state of relaxation.
- Stress Reduction: L-theanine may have anti-stress and anxiety-reducing effects. By modulating neurotransmitters and influencing the release of stress hormones, including cortisol, L-theanine may help individuals manage stress more effectively.
- Cortisol Regulation: Some studies suggest that L-theanine may have a role in modulating cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone released in response to stress, and chronic elevation of cortisol levels can have adverse effects on health. L-theanine's potential to mitigate stress may contribute to a more balanced cortisol response.
- Improved Sleep Quality: L-theanine's ability to induce relaxation and reduce stress may contribute to improved sleep quality. By promoting a sense of calmness, it may make it easier for individuals to fall asleep and stay asleep.
- Enhancement of Alpha Brain Waves: L-theanine has been associated with an increase in alpha brain wave activity. Alpha waves are linked to a state of wakeful relaxation and are often present during meditation and light relaxation. The enhancement of alpha waves may contribute to a relaxed yet alert mental state conducive to better sleep.
- No Sedative Side Effects: Unlike some sleep aids, L-theanine does not typically induce sedation or drowsiness during the day. This makes it an attractive option for those looking to improve sleep without experiencing daytime grogginess.