How Lack of Sleep May Affect Daily Living

+ Tips to help manage insomnia symptoms

Wednesday, April 27, 2016 — Not getting enough sleep? You’re not alone. The New Zealand Medical Journal estimates 13 per cent of Kiwis between 20 and 59 regularly have at least one symptom of insomnia, along with “excessive daytime sleepiness”.

While irregular shuteye may affect many aspects of daily living, it is said to be a condition that mostly affects adults and the elderly.

Temporary or Chronic?

“Temporary insomnia tends to be related to caffeine intake, eating too much in the evening, jet lag, shift work or life stressors such as losing a job, death of someone close, health or family concerns,” says naturopath, nutritionist and Lifestream ambassador Janella Purcell. “Chronic insomnia, meanwhile, may be caused by long lasting medical conditions such as breathing problems, chronic pain, depression, anxiety and regular poor sleep habits.”

Insomnia symptoms may often include:

· Low energy

· Everyday activities may be more difficult than normal

· Poor concentration

· Feeling sleepy during the day

· A tendency to make misjudgments and mistakes.

“If you produce too much adrenaline in response to stress you will may also have insomnia, panic attacks or anxiety, and perhaps weight loss. This helps us to understand why some people lose weight while others gain during stressful periods,” Janella says. “Unfortunately, insomnia can be a cycle; the more you worry and stress about it, the more it may affect you. However, there are some key nutrients that can be considered when you are struggling with getting enough quality sleep.”

Minerals to Support a Better Night’s Sleep

Adding minerals magnesium and calcium, as well as herb tart cherry may help put sleeping patterns back on track.

Magnesium

Magnesium stores may be depleted by mental and physical stress, processed diet and medications. This mineral may help relax the nervous system and support healthy nerve function.

Calcium

Calcium may help support muscle and nerve function and may work in combination with magnesium for sleep wake cycles.

According to James F. Balch, MD, the author of Prescription for Nutritional Healing, lack of calcium and magnesium may cause people to wake after a few hours and not be able to return to sleep.