Tag Archives: best calcium for sleep

Study Reveals Better Bone Health from 1 Minute of Exercise

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exercise for bone healthWhat if a research study was conducted with actual real human beings (not animals) that demonstrated a mere one to two minutes a day of exercise could result in better, stronger bones?  Well, there  is one.

With increasing age, our bones become weaker and less dense, particularly in women after menopause due to the decline in estrogen and calcium in the body.  More and more studies are finding that physical movement and activity can counteract the effects of weaker bones and any tendency toward bone fractures.

Epidemiology is the study of how often various diseases occur and also what possible ways or methods might exist to control or eradicate them.  The most recent study on the topic of bone health was published in the International Journal of Epidemiology.  The burning question in the researcher’s minds was this: How do we discover what type of exercise, what quantity of exercise, and what intensity, would provide the most positive, beneficial impact on bone strength.

For the study, both pre and post-menopausal women wore small wrist monitors for a week that measured and recorded the intensity of their physical movements.  It was particularly important to the researchers to be able to record very short amounts of activity.  They looked at data for more than 2,500 women, and compared their activity levels with bone health, which was measured by an ultrasound scan of heel bone.

The outcome?  A mere one to two minutes of flat-out, intense exercise resulted in an increase in bone strength.  This translates to a minute or two of slow jogging for a post-menopausal woman or a minute or two of running for a pre-menopausal woman in order to achieve a 4% increase in bone health.  Women who did more than two minutes had a 6% increase.  (Please see further recommendations below on how to safely transition into more intense exercise).

The lead author of the study, Dr Victoria Stiles of the University of Exeter in the UK, said: “We wanted to make every second count in our analysis, because short snippets of high-intensity activity are more beneficial to bone health than longer, continuous periods. We were careful not to ignore short bursts of activity throughout the day.”

Dr. Stiles makes a suggestion for people who are interested in upping their levels of daily exercise.  She said: “The UK’s National Osteoporosis Society recommends increasing your walking activity first.  Further on, we would suggest adding a few running steps to the walk, a bit like you might do if you were running to catch a bus.”

Another proven way to increase bone health is to include more calcium-rich foods in the diet.  Olive oil, leafy greens, almonds, raw cheeses, yogurt, broccoli and carrots are good choices.  Calcium, magnesium and vitamin D supplements are also beneficial.  Not only do these minerals strengthen bone and muscle health, but they are proven to calm sleeplessness and insomnia as well.

One study published in the European Neurology Journal 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.

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.”

One calcium-based supplement shown to be effective for insomnia is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs.  This formula contains highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium, the best minerals for sleeplessness and insomnia, as well as for menopause insomnia, heart health, restless leg syndrome and bone strength.  It also includes vitamin D and zinc and is delivered in a softgel form with healthy carrier oils, making it more quickly absorbable than tablets or capsules and providing a deeper, longer-lasting sleep.

Sadie D. from the Netherlands says: “I am ever so grateful that I discovered Sleep Minerals II after suffering with premenopause and now the real menopause insomnia.  I felt like I was slowly losing my mind due to the continual lack of sleep.  I can’t express the relief of getting a good night’s sleep and being able to function properly.”

Richard P. of Parkville, Maryland says: “The Sleep Minerals are making quite a difference.  I was regularly waking up at around 3:00 a.m. and couldn‘t go back to sleep. Now I wake up once to go to the bathroom, but the great thing is, I then fall back asleep and sleep several more hours.”

The main message is that a combination of exercise and calcium tend to ignite into a dynamic duo that can bring great boosts to bone health, healthy sleep and good overall health.

This health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of effective natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes the original calcium and magnesium based natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, as well as Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, aches and pains, stronger hair and nails and more energy.

Teenage Insomnia: Studies, Remedies and Tips

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teen insomniaTeenage Insomnia Remedies – Studies, Doctor Advice 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 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 effective teenage insomnia remedies. One natural insomnia remedy that*s gaining in popularity for all ages is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs.

It contains highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium — the best minerals for sleeplessness and insomnia, as well as for heart health, restless leg syndrome, bone strength, menopause insomnia and teenage insomnia. It also contains vitamin D and zinc and is delivered in a softgel form with healthy carrier oils, making it better assimilated than tablets or capsules and providing a deeper, longer-lasting sleep.

Darleen T. of La Mesa, California says: “I purchased Sleep Minerals for my teenage daughter.  When she started on the minerals she hadn’t been sleeping well for the past couple of years.  She was run down and feeling beyond her years… exhausted.  She is only 18.  Once she started on Sleep Minerals she actually became tired at night, which is new. She can fall into a restful sleep by 10:30 p.m. and sleep all night. This product is a heaven send and has given her a life back.”

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, click here.

New Research: Vitamin E Prevents Muscle Loss With Aging

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vitamin e foodsA study from the journal “Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity” has demonstrated that vitamin E can prevent and treat the loss of muscle mass and strength that occurs as people age.  This loss of muscle is known as “sarcopenia”.

Regarding the word “oxidative” that is included in the journal name, this refers to the process in our bodies where we process the oxygen we breathe in, and our cells produce energy from it.

This process can become imbalanced and create a state of “oxidative stress” if we don’t consume enough “anti” oxidants such as vitamins E, C and A.  Besides the body’s own natural metabolism functions, sources of oxidative stress can include pollution, medications or drugs, smoke, infection, stress, toxins, or a poor diet.

The researchers explain that vitamin E creates healthy muscles because a reduced level of vitamin E or a deficiency in the body is associated with an increased risk of muscle atrophy (shrinkage).  The vitamin can prevent muscle damage and encourage muscle regeneration.

Muscles in the body are particularly susceptible to oxidative damage as these are the site of the highest consumption of oxygen. Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin that greatly boosts cellular antioxidant capacity.  Because of this, vitamin E can be beneficial for preventing the effects of aging and for also treating infections, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and neurological disorders.

Several studies have demonstrated an association between vitamin E levels and the amount of muscle strength or weakness.  One study in Italy was done with 1,156 participants between 65 years old and 102.  Knee extension strength tests showed that a daily intake of vitamin E is significantly related to a person’s total physical performance and strength.

Another group of scientists proved the beneficial effects of vitamin E in reversing muscle damage during extensive exercise in men.  The men took 800 units of Vitamin E daily for 28 days.  After a downhill run, their oxidative stress indicators were measured and were shown to be markedly reduced in both the older and younger men.

Vitamin E has many pathways by which it brings its beneficial health effects.  In addition to being a powerful antioxidant, it is also an effective anti-inflammatory vitamin.  It may halt the overall inflammation in the body by suppressing certain reactive cells of the immune system.  These inflammatory responses and cells have a direct affect on muscle strength and mass as well, so vitamin E does its good deeds in benefiting the muscles in this additional way.

Inactivity and immobility can lead to muscle wasting, so the researchers highly encourage low intensity exercises as an effective means to increase muscle strength and performance.  This may include walking, lifting light weights, doing squats, etc.  This also increases a person’s ability to balance and control the body well.  Combining a healthy diet with nutrition supplements and exercise is the most highly recommended approach to improved muscle strength.

Vitamin E has also been shown to ease arthritis pain and stiffness.  One study showed that pain parameters were significantly decreased after vitamin E treatment when compared with placebo.

This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D, and also Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, aches and pains, stronger hair and nails and more energy.

Sleep Minerals II: New Reviews of Top Sleep Aid

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Sleep Minerals II: New Reviews of Top Sleep Aid

There are a high percentage of people who encounter nightly insomnia and sleeplessness all over the world.

In the United States, the National Sleep Foundation reports that up to 25% of adults have tried sleeping drugs in an effort to get some sleep.  These medications come with extensive side effects and are not always effective.

Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs is a natural sleep aid that contains highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium.  Customer reviews show that it works well for sleeplessness and insomnia, as well as for heart health, restless leg syndrome, bone strength, muscle cramps, menopause insomnia, hot flashes, night sweats, and teenage insomnia.

Sleep Minerals II also contains vitamin D and zinc and is delivered in a softgel form mixed with natural rice bran oil, making it better assimilated than tablets or capsules and providing a deeper, longer-lasting sleep.

James F. Balch, M.D., author of “Prescription for Nutritional Healing,” writes that: “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.”

Here are some of the latest reviews of the Sleep Minerals II sleep aid from customers all over the world:

S.K. of Indianapolis, Indiana says: “I have been using Sleep Minerals II. I use it religiously every single night. I suffered from YEARS of anxiety-related insomnia. Nothing helped. My doctor couldn’t find a medicinal combination of medications to treat my anxiety well enough to allow me to get some good sleep. On my first night of Sleep Minerals II, I was able to sleep all the way through the night. I’ve been using it for almost two years now. I am absolutely 1000% satisfied with this product and have even recommended it to my friends and family when they discuss their sleep issues with me.”

K. C. of Homer, New York says: “I am writing to you a true believer of Sleep Minerals II.  I never write product reviews…. good or bad.  I had originally ordered your sleep minerals product and thought I would give it a try.  Well I had given it to the entire family.  We ran out of it and I really thought it wasn’t working.  I quickly realized within a couple nights that without them the entire household was not falling asleep as easily as they were before!  So I immediately ordered more.  I will not let that happen again.”

For more information, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.

I.C. of Ontario, Canada says: “I have Lupus, which is an autoimmune condition.  I’m not allowed to take vitamins like vitamin C or anything that builds up my immune system.  If I do, my immune system gets stronger and attacks me.  I have diabetes, a thyroid condition, arthritis and other issues.  The Sleep Minerals is just subtle enough that it helps me sleep and gives me the minerals I need – especially calcium. I have arthritis throughout my whole body and the minerals help this a lot.  In fact, the Sleep Minerals lessens all of my symptoms greatly and has helped me to go into remission.”

W.W. of Perth, Australia says: “I have been taking the Sleep Minerals for the past 15 nights and am noticing an improvement in my ability to go back to sleep when waking during the night.  I have also been able to start reducing the medication that I have been taking for the past 7 years for sleep.  I will definitely keep taking them and hope to keep reducing the prescription meds and continue to feel more rested during the day.”

For more information, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.

J.H. of Manitoba, Canada says: “Sleep Minerals II has made a huge difference in my life as I was having debilitating leg cramps that used to occur every night.  My legs were sore even into the next day.  These have now become history.  My sleep is also so much better and now I don’t worry constantly about my calcium and magnesium levels.  I am 70 years old and look forward to a very healthy old age. I suffered with sleep deprivation for a very long time and I will continue to pass the word on to my friends about how Sleep Minerals II has changed my life.”

M. T. of Tasmania, Australia says: “I received the Sleep Minerals II about a week ago and have been taking the softgels about an hour before bed. The last two nights I have slept well. The best side effect I have found, however, is that the night sweats and hot flashes I had constantly throughout the day, have almost completely stopped. And if I do have one, it is 95% less than I previously experienced. So far I’m very happy with the Sleep Minerals.”

For more information, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.

Good Sleep: Nutrients that Help You Get More of It

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Sleep better with nutrition and nutrientsGuest Post by Sharon Walsh of BestMattressReviews.com *************************
Presented by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II
*************************
Adults need a full seven to eight hours of sleep every night to stay healthy, yet many people get far less.  Stress, medical conditions, and poor sleep hygiene can all come between you and the rest you need. Sleep hygiene refers to those habits and practices that are conducive to sleeping well on a regular basis.

There are also positive interactions that occur between the sleep hormone melatonin and the foods you eat that can help you sleep better. The right foods help set your circadian rhythms so that when it’s time to hit the pillow, you’re ready to settle down for the night. Cirdadian rhythms are guided by our internal body clock.  These cycles tell our bodies when to sleep, rise, and eat – regulating many physiological processes. The cycles are triggered by environmental cues, like sunlight and temperature.

Tryptophan – More Than Turkey

The tryptophan found in turkey is legendary in the food world for making people drowsy. While the sleep-inducing properties in your Thanksgiving dinner may have more to do with the size of the meal than the one slice of meat you eat, tryptophan does also help you sleep, but not in the direct way many people think. The body uses tryptophan to make serotonin and melatonin, both of which are natural hormones made in the brain that help set your circadian rhythms.

Tryptophan can be found in far more foods than turkey. If you’re looking for other natural sources, try adding these foods to your diet for an extra boost:

  • Walnuts: Walnuts are not only a good source of tryptophan but a natural source of melatonin itself. They make a great bedtime snack.

  • Seeds and Nuts: Pumpkin and squash seeds, in particular, provide a quick dose of tryptophan.

  • Cheese: If you’re looking for a healthy kick, try reduced-fat mozzarella or add something a little different like Fontina and Edam.

Calcium – Dairy and More

A warm glass of milk is more than an old wives’ tale. The calcium in dairy products and many other foods help the brain use tryptophan to make melatonin. Cheese, yogurt, milk, and even ice cream have the calcium your body needs to help regulate your sleep cycle. If you’re looking for non-dairy foods to get a calcium boost consider trying:

  • Spinach and Other Leafy Greens: These brightly colored vegetables are loaded with nutrients. Other greens like kale and collard greens also have high amounts of calcium.

  • Fortified Orange Juice: Calcium is important for many body processes. It just makes sense to add it to this popular breakfast drink. A quick glass of orange juice also gives you a dose of vitamin C.

  • Enriched Grains: Enriched grains and breads give you some versatility in how you get your calcium.  Quinoa may be even a better choice, as it offers approximately 60-100 mg of calcium, not to mention a high amount of potassium, zinc and protein.

Develop Good Sleep Hygiene (Habits)

All your healthy eating may go to waste if you don’t develop good sleep hygiene. Your sleep environment can make or break your ability to get a full night’s rest. If you suffer from insomnia or need to get a few more hours of rest, try:

  • A Bedtime Routine: Not just for kids, a bedtime routine can trigger your brain to start sending the ‘sleep’ signals to the rest of your body. A warm glass of milk (remember the importance of calcium), a warm bath, writing the next day’s plans down in a journal, are a few ideas to get you started. You can include anything that helps you relax.

  • Cutting Screen Time: The bright light from televisions, e-readers, and smartphones can fool the brain into thinking it’s daytime, which means reducing melatonin and staying awake. Start shutting down your screens at least an hour before bedtime to keep your circadian rhythms in sync.

  • Bedtime Snack: While you want to avoid a heavy meal before bed, if hunger pains keep you awake, try eating a healthy snack. A handful of nuts, seeds, or cheese and crackers makes a good snack because they have ingredients that promote sleep.   Raw almonds or almond butter are good choices as almonds contain 266 mg of calcium per 3 1/2 ounces.

Keep these sleep-healthy tips in mind in order to increase the quantity and quality of your nightly rest and have more energy in your days!

This article is a guest post provided by https://www.bestmattressreviews.com/

This natural health news blog is presented by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D, and also Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, aches and pains, stronger hair and nails and more energy.

Vitamin E Protects Muscles, Remedies Hot Flashes

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vitamin e*********************************
This health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II
*********************************
A study from the journal “Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity” (see definition for “oxidative” below), has demonstrated that vitamin E can prevent and treat the loss of muscle mass and strength that occurs as people age.

Regarding the word “oxidative”, this refers to the process in our bodies where we process the oxygen we breathe in and our cells produce energy from it.  This process can become imbalanced and create a state of “oxidative stress” if we don’t consume enough “anti” oxidants such as vitamins E, C and A.

Vitamin E was also shown in recent research from “Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation” to be a natural alternative to estrogen therapy and an effective remedy for hot flashes and night sweats.

Besides the body’s own natural digestion and metabolism functions, other sources of oxidative stress can include pollution, medications or drugs, smoking, infection, stress, toxins or a poor diet.

The researchers from the journal of “Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity” explain that a reduced level of vitamin E or a deficiency in the body is associated with an increased risk of muscle atrophy (shrinkage).

The vitamin can prevent muscle damage and encourage muscle regeneration.  Muscles in the body are particularly susceptible to oxidative damage as these are the site of the highest consumption of oxygen. Vitamin E is a fat soluble vitamin that greatly boosts cellular antioxidant capacity.

Because of this, vitamin E can be beneficial for preventing the effects of aging and for also treating infections, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and neurological disorders.

While vitamin E is famous for the health benefits it provides to glands, organs and the heart, it may not be generally known that vitamin E is a proven remedy for menopausal hot flashes and night sweats.

A hot flash, also called a hot flush, is a sudden unexpected feeling of warmth and often a breakout of sweat in the upper half of the body.

These flashes occur with up to 80% of women around the time of menopause, and men can also have them due to a lessening of testosterone at middle age.  A night sweat is a “hot flash” that occurs in the night, often while one is sleeping, and can cause frequent awakenings.

Vitamin E was shown to be a natural alternative to estrogen therapy and an effective remedy for hot flashes. The researchers found there were significant statistical differences in the hot flash severity score after women took a 400 IU vitamin E (softgel cap) daily for 4 weeks.  They concluded that based on the trial, vitamin E brings relief and is a recommended hot flash treatment.

Adelle Davis, the first nutritionist to base her recommendations on science-based studies, says: “During the menopause the need for vitamin E soars ten to fifty times over that previously required. Hot flashes and night sweats often disappear when 50 to 500 units of vitamin E are taken daily, but they quickly recur should the vitamin be stopped.”

Calcium is also directly related to night sweats and 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.

Regarding the need for calcium need at the time of menopause Davis says: “During the menopause, the lack of the ovarian hormones (estrogen and progesterone) causes severe calcium deficiency symptoms to occur.”

“At these times, high amounts of calcium should be obtained and every step be taken to insure its absorption into the blood. When these precautions are taken and the diet is adequate in other respects, the woman at menopause usually loses her irritability, hot flashes, night sweats, leg cramps, insomnia, and mental depression.”

One supplement that contains highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs.  It is a proven remedy for sleeplessness and insomnia, as well as for heart health, restless leg syndrome, bone strength, menopause insomnia, hot flashes, night sweats, and teenage insomnia.

Sleep Minerals II also contains vitamin D and zinc and is delivered in a softgel form mixed with natural rice bran oil, making it better assimilated than tablets or capsules and providing a deeper, longer-lasting sleep.

Anita L. of New Caney, Texas says: “I was having hot flashes every 30 minutes to an hour through the night and was so miserable. After about two weeks of taking the Sleep Minerals, I noticed an incredible difference with my sleep. I have much less interruption from flashes, I’m sleeping much better and I’m a lot more comfortable.”

This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of natural remedies since 2002. For more information on Sleep Minerals II, visit the Sleep Minerals II page.

Calcium Foods for Strong Bones and Good Sleep

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calcium foodsCalcium Foods for Strong Bones and Good Sleep

Calcium is one of the most famous of all minerals due to its vast array of benefits to our health. Dr. Linus Pauling, the two-time Nobel Prize winner said: “You can trace every sickness, every disease, and every ailment to a mineral deficiency.”

Studies have proven that calcium increases bone health, reduces high blood pressure, relaxes the nerves and muscles, prevents colon cancer and kidney stones, and acts as an effective remedy for insomnia and sleeplessness.

Adelle Davis, one of the first nutritionists to base her recommendations on scientific studies, 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.”

Calcium was discovered by the British chemist Sir Humphry Davy in the early 1800’s.  Regarding stomach and colon health, a 2007 study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that calcium protects high-risk people from developing the polyps (growths in the large intestine) that can lead to cancer in the large bowel.

Calcium supplements were also shown to help prevent kidney stones in a 2008 study at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine.

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.

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.”

One calcium-based supplement shown to be effective for insomnia is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs.  This formula contains highly absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium, the best minerals for sleeplessness and insomnia, as well as for menopause insomnia, heart health, restless legs syndrome and bone strength.

It also includes vitamin D and zinc and is delivered in a softgel form with healthy carrier oils, making it more quickly absorbable than tablets or capsules and providing a deeper, longer-lasting sleep.

Richard P. of Parkville, Maryland says: *The Sleep Minerals are making quite a difference.  I was regularly waking up at around 3:00 a.m. and couldn‘t go back to sleep. Now I wake up once to go to the bathroom, but the great thing is, I then fall back asleep and sleep several more hours.*

Anita L. of New Caney, Texas says: “I was having hot flashes every 30 minutes to an hour through the night and was so miserable.  After about two weeks of taking the Sleep Minerals, I noticed an incredible difference with my sleep.  I have much less interruptions from hot flashes, I’m sleeping much better and I’m a lot more comfortable.”

Calcium can be obtained from calcium foods or supplements, and a combination of both may be beneficial to overall health.

This health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of effective natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes the original calcium and magnesium based natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, as well as Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, aches and pains, stronger hair and nails and more energy.

How to Sleep Better: Studies on Eating Healthy Fats

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healthy fatsThe link between what we eat and how we sleep is closely related, especially when it comes to consuming healthy fats.

In an article from the journal “Endocrinology – An Integrated Approach” (endocrinology deals with the glands and hormones), the author writes that all hormones are made from cholesterol.

This includes estrogen, testosterone, progesterone, adrenal gland hormones, vitamin D, and the sleep hormone melatonin.

Eating healthy fats with our meals can play a vital role in helping us sleep better and achieve greater health, as these provide the basic building blocks for cholesterol production and hormones.  The best fats to eat are nutrient rich foods like eggs, natural butter, olive oil, salmon, sardines, shrimp, cod liver oil, avocados and coconut oil. The less healthy fats are vegetable oils such as safflower oil, sunflower oil, canola oil and hydrogenated oils like those in margarine..

Milk is well-known for its positive effects on sleep, and dairy foods contain cholesterol, however some people are not able to digest dairy well and are better able to assimilate fermented dairy foods like yogurt and kefir.  Milk also has the benefit of containing calcium, which has been found in studies to soothe insomnia.

In one study from the European Journal of Clinical Neurology, researchers tested the use of milk that was fermented with yogurt cultures for its effect on sleep quality.  They discovered that there was a significant improvement in the time needed to fall asleep, as well as a reduced number of night time awakenings for the participants who drank the fermented milk daily.  No significant changes in sleep were observed for the placebo group.

Regarding the use of minerals for better sleep, one study called “The Nutritional Relationships of Magnesium”, notes that the type of insomnia associated with a calcium deficiency causes difficulty with falling asleep. The classical sign of magnesium deficiency is insomnia characterized by falling asleep easily, but awakening frequently throughout the night, with individuals finding themselves tired even after several hours of sleep.

A balanced calcium magnesium ratio is important to overall health, and these two minerals should be taken together for best results, in a two to one ratio with twice as much calcium as magnesium.  The original research on this recommended ratio appeared in 1935 in the Journal of Physiological Reviews.

In addition, a softgel form containing healthy carrier oils mixed with the minerals is more digestible than tablets or capsules and provides a deeper, longer-lasting sleep. One popular formula that has these qualities is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs.  Sleep Minerals II contains highly absorbable forms of the best minerals for relaxation: calcium and magnesium, combined with vitamin d, zinc, and heart-healthy rice bran oil in a softgel.

Kimberly B. of Troy, Michigan says: “I have been taking Sleep Minerals II for about a month now. I have tried everything out there and this supplement is amazing. I have suffered with insomnia for 2 1/2 years. I have also had restless leg syndrome my entire life and this is the first relief I’ve ever had…gone for a month now.”

In summary, eating good healthy fats and also taking enough sleep-inducing minerals, can be a good combination for achieving better sleep.

For more information on Sleep Minerals II visit this information page.

Sleep Vitamins and Remedies: Vitamin A Proven Beneficial

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sleep vitaminsWhich vitamins and minerals are the most famous ones for their role in supporting good sleep?  These definitely would be calcium, magnesium and vitamin D.

For example, a study in the European Neurology Journal tested calcium levels in the blood during sleep and discovered that calcium peaks at a high point during the deepest levels of sleep such as the rapid eye movement phase (REM), when dreaming occurs.

Recent studies are showing that a lesser-known vitamin also plays a vital role in preventing insomnia – the eye strengthening Vitamin A.

With the National Sleep Foundation reporting that close to 60% of Americans are experiencing sleeplessness and insomnia at least a few nights per week, many people are spending a lot of time and energy searching for some effective, natural ways to sleep better.  One study on vitamin A that’s related to sleep was published in the PLOS Journal (Public Library of Science).

The researchers selected 2,459 adults aged 20 to 85.  They discovered that people who have lower blood levels of vitamin A have higher odds of having a shorter sleep duration (i.e. 5-6 hours per night), compared to those with more vitamin A having a better sleep duration (7-8 hours per night).

Vitamin A, long-known for its benefits to healthy eyes and vision, is also a key to helping regulate the sleep-wake cycle.  When light from the sun enters the eyes, it’s vitamin A that provides the middle step for the brain to then know it’s day and not night.

With adequate vitamin A in the eyes at night when it’s dark, one’s night vision will be strong – unless most of the vitamin A is used up for its light translation duties in the day time. If the eyes are weaker at night, this is a possible sign of vitamin A deficiency. When the vitamin A sunlight signal grows weaker, the body knows it’s nearing time to go to sleep.

The best ways to get adequate vitamin A is through whole foods – namely egg yolks, butter, vegetables with a green, yellow and orange color, liver and cod liver oil.  Vitamin A supplements are also an option, but are best taken as part of a diet that includes healthy sources of vitamin A, as well as good sources of other important vitamins and minerals.  Eating a healthy diet would include grass fed meats, poultry and fish, a rainbow of organic vegetables, and good fats like avocados, coconut oil and olive oil.

Another thing to consider for helping to prevent insomnia is reducing the use of electronics and TV at night or at least turning them off an hour before bed, in order to limit their melatonin-blocking effects. In an article from the Lighting Research Center at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, the researchers said: “Our study showed that a two-hour exposure to light from self-luminous electronic displays can suppress melatonin by about 22 percent.  Stimulating the human circadian (wake-sleep cycle) system to this level may affect sleep in those using the devices prior to bedtime.”

Magnesium has been shown in several studies to relieve insomnia. In one study from the University of Iran, people with insomnia were given magnesium tablets twice a day for eight weeks.  They experienced significant increases in quality sleep time, with less night time interruptions and fewer early morning awakenings.  Magnesium can be found in foods such as green leafy vegetables, pumpkin seeds, almonds, avocados, figs, bananas, brown rice, and other nuts and seeds.  Magnesium supplements are a good option as well, particularly those containing magnesium citrate which is highly absorbable.

One supplement shown to have good results for insomnia is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs.  This formula contains highly absorbable forms of calcium citrate and magnesium citrate, the best minerals for sleeplessness and insomnia, as well as for heart health, restless legs syndrome, bone strength and menopause insomnia.  It also includes vitamin D and zinc and is delivered in a softgel form with healthy carrier oils, making it more quickly absorbable than tablets or capsules and providing a deeper, longer-lasting sleep.

Tammy M. of Meridian, Idaho says: “I was plagued with insomnia for five years and desperate for a breakthrough. Nothing has helped me more than Sleep Minerals — I*m so sold on them I could go door to door promoting them.  I*m 60 years old and have never slept so soundly.”

To sum it up, good strategies for sleeping well and avoiding insomnia include having some good sun exposure during the day, limiting use of electronic devices at night, doing some regular moderate exercise, eating a nutritious diet, and using some key supplements.

This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of effective natural remedies since 2001. Nutrition breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D, and also Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, aches and pains, stronger hair and nails and more energy.

Magnesium and Menopause: Proven for Insomnia, Hot Flashes

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magnesium and menopauseThe North American Menopause Society writes that menopause is a normal, natural event, defined as the occurrence of the final menstrual period.  It takes place on average, around the age of 51.

Regarding the vital role of magnesium, the University of Maryland Medical Center says that magnesium levels in the body tend to decrease during menopause due to the lowered levels of estrogen.

Restoring magnesium to a healthy level can not only help to reduce menopause symptoms such as insomnia, hot flashes, depression, osteoporosis and anxiety, but it can also help to increase the health of a woman’s organs and her overall health.  Magnesium is one of the most vital minerals and is involved in over 300 functions in the body.

Mark Hyman M.D. says: Think of magnesium as the relaxation mineral. Anything that is tight, irritable, crampy, and stiff — whether it is a body part or an even a mood — is a sign of magnesium deficiency. It is an antidote to stress…and it can help improve your sleep.”

In a study from the University of Medical Sciences in Iran, research was done with 46 adults who were experiencing insomnia.  Taking two magnesium oxide tablets twice a day resulted in significant increases in sleep time and reduced cortisol levels in the body, which is a stress hormone made by the adrenal glands that can keep one awake.

In another research study from the Human Nutrition Research Center of the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, scientists found that a high magnesium diet is associated with deeper, less interrupted sleep.  The best magnesium-rich foods to eat include dark leafy greens (spinach, chard), nuts and seeds (particularly pumpkin seeds), fish, avocado and fruit.  Bananas and figs are good sources.

Hot flashes and night sweats are the most common complaints in the pre-menopause and menopause time.  Mineral supplements such as magnesium and calcium have been shown to remedy these and provide relief.  One example is a study from the Virginia Commonwealth University Health System.  Women with at least 14 hot flashes a week received 400 milligrams of magnesium oxide for 4 weeks, increasing to 800 mg. per day if needed.

At the end of the study, the magnesium supplements had reduced their frequency of hot flashes from 52 to 28 per week, a 41.4% reduction.  Fatigue, sweating, and distress were also significantly reduced.

The women participating in the study were breast cancer survivors, thus they were unable to take the usual hot flash medications that have estrogenic activity such as hormone replacement or soy supplements.  Many women, breast cancer survivors or not, prefer to take a non estrogen-active natural remedy for hot flashes and night sweats, and the researchers concluded that magnesium appears to safely reduce hot flashes, with few side effects and at minimal cost.

Women after menopause may find themselves with thinner bones, osteoporosis and a larger waistline.  One recent study from Spain involved a study of 78 post menopausal women aged 44 to 76.  The researchers sought to discover a relationship between magnesium deficiency and a risk for obesity and osteoporosis after menopause.  Blood tests were taken to determine their magnesium levels.  The scientists found that magnesium consumption (from magnesium-rich sources) was insufficient in 36% of the women and that 72% had deficient levels of magnesium in their blood.

The study results found positive correlations between magnesium intake and a smaller waist.  Higher magnesium levels in the blood were also correlated with lower cholesterol levels. With 38% of the subjects in the study being overweight, the researchers noted the importance of postmenopausal women maintaining a good intake of magnesium in order to prevent deficiencies and degenerative physical conditions.

One supplement shown to be effective for insomnia and hot flashes is Sleep Minerals II from Nutrition Breakthroughs.  This formula contains highly absorbable magnesium and calcium, the best minerals for sleeplessness and insomnia, as well as for menopause insomnia, heart health, restless legs syndrome and bone strength.  It also includes vitamin D and zinc and is delivered in a softgel form with healthy carrier oils, making it more quickly absorbable than tablets or capsules and providing a deeper, longer-lasting sleep.

Anita L. of New Caney, Texas says: “I was having hot flashes every 30 minutes to an hour through the night and was so miserable.  After about two weeks of taking the Sleep Minerals, I noticed an incredible difference with my sleep.  I have much less interruption from flashes, I’m sleeping much better and I’m a lot more comfortable.”

Sadie D. from The Netherlands says: “I am ever so grateful that I discovered Sleep Minerals II after suffering with premenopause and now the real menopausal insomnia.  I felt like I was slowly losing my mind due to the continual lack of sleep.  I can’t express the relief of getting a good night’s sleep and being able to function properly.”

A healthy plan is to make good use of magnesium-rich foods and supplements for effective, natural relief of menopause symptoms.

This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of effective natural remedies since 2001. Nutrition breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D, and also Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, aches and pains, stronger hair and nails and more energy.