Doctor Reveals His Nightly Sleep Supplement

He recommends this to patients struggling to fall asleep at night

Many individuals struggle with sleepless nights due to various factors, ranging from busy lifestyles to underlying health conditions. Insufficient sleep not only disrupts daily activities but may also lead to serious health issues. A doctor has recommended a particular supplement that he personally uses to improve sleep quality.

Around 7.5 million adults (14%) sleep less than five hours each night, which places them at a higher risk for mental health challenges, stress, and chronic physical illnesses. Currently, medical professionals are hesitant to prescribe sleeping pills due to concerns about dependency.

As a result, healthcare providers typically advocate lifestyle modifications and dietary adjustments as initial steps, before considering natural remedies and supplements. These supplements aim to enhance the nutrients that our bodies sometimes fail to produce—such as hormones, vitamins, or minerals found in our diets.

A blood test can often help determine if you lack specific nutrients that could be contributing to your sleep issues. According to Surrey Live, Dr. Asif Ahmed, who shares insights online as @Drasays, has previously highlighted two supplements that he believes would benefit “almost everyone” when included in their bedtime routines to enhance sleep quality.

Commenting on these supplements, he stated: “I’ve mentioned this numerous times – I think magnesium is something that nearly everyone could benefit from. The specific type to take really depends on your intention.”

Due to personal challenges, Dr. Ahmed turned to magnesium glycinate, a specific form of magnesium that is available in various formats, such as tablets, gummies, or powders, to suit individual preferences.

This mineral also shows potential in addressing an array of physical and mental health concerns beyond enhancing sleep, including anxiety, bone health, blood sugar regulation, migraines, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and muscle cramps.

Discussing his personal usage, he shared: “I take it in the evening before bed to help me unwind and achieve better sleep. While that is based on personal experience, research indicates it can aid those struggling with sleep anxiety; however, it’s best to try it yourself to see if it works for you.”

The NHS highlights the importance of magnesium on its website, noting that it is a vital mineral produced by our bodies. It plays a crucial role in energy conversion from food and assists the parathyroid glands, essential for maintaining healthy bones.

To enhance your magnesium intake, consider incorporating natural sources like spinach, nuts, and wholemeal bread into your diet, as well as using supplements. Adults are encouraged to aim for a daily intake of between 270 and 300 mg.

However, excessive magnesium consumption can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort and, if taken in excess of 400 mg, may cause diarrhea. It’s advisable to consult a GP to determine a safe dosage and ascertain if magnesium supplements are suitable for you.

Dr. Ahmed also brought up a second recommendation that might surprise many, as it has shown “remarkable” effects on fatigue in recent studies. Creatine monohydrate, a naturally occurring compound, is usually noted for enhancing muscle performance.

However, its benefits extend beyond muscle enhancement. Creatine monohydrate has also been linked to increasing overall sleep duration and potentially alleviating sleep pressure in individuals who suffer from sleep deprivation.

Dr. Ahmed acknowledged that some users may experience side effects from creatine, such as diarrhea, constipation, or stomach discomfort. These issues are often attributed to impurities in the products being taken.

Before introducing any new supplements into your regimen, it’s advisable to consult with your GP. They can provide guidance tailored to your health history and identify any potential risks associated with specific products, including interactions with other medications you may be taking.

In conclusion, addressing sleep issues with the right supplements can be beneficial, but it’s crucial to approach these solutions thoughtfully and under professional guidance. Sleep is vital for overall health, and ensuring you have the right support can lead to better nights and brighter days.