3 Nootropics for Sleep
Nootropics are amazing for productivity–but did you know that some of them can also help us get a restful nights’ sleep?
1-Magnesium (especially Magnesium Glycinate)
Magnesium really is a wonder mineral. It is required by over 300 enzyme processes in the body and is one of the best supplements you can take. Magnesium supports bone and heart health. It also improves mood, and works amazingly well for sleep. Magnesium is a natural NMDA receptor antagonist (N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor) and a GABA agonist. It increases sleep time, sleep efficiency, and melatonin, while simultaneously decreasing the time it takes to fall asleep and serum cortisol concentrations.
Magnesium Glycinate’s glycine promotes sleep by activating NMDA receptors in the brain, enhancing sleep quality. By activating these receptors, the glycine regulates circadian rhythms and body temperature which are integral to sleep. If using Magnesium citrate, its laxative properties may have you rushing to the bathroom about 8 hours after ingestion. One reason why Magnesium glycinate is superior is its quality, making it a top choice for supplementation.
2. L-Theanine
L-Theanine is the amino acid that you can find in green, black, and white teas. It enhances brain waves linked to “relaxed awareness” before sleep, occurring in parietal and occipital brain areas. L-Theanine produces alpha-brain waves within 30-40 minutes after you take it. L-Theanine regulates brain excitatory neurotransmitters and stress levels, aiding in a restful night’s sleep by inducing calmness. Animal studies indicate L-Theanine boosts brain glycine and GABA levels, inducing relaxation. L-Theanine won’t make you drowsy, but it will promote relaxation so your mind is quiet enough that you can prepare your mind to unwind before bed.
One of the best things about L-Theanine is that it is a GRAS substance (Generally Recognized as Safe) and it won’t cause brain fog the next day.
3. L-Tryptophan
L-Tryptophan is another amino acid that you can find in cheese, chicken, turkey, eggs, and some fish. As a precursor to serotonin, L-Tryptophan increases the levels of serotonin in the brain which, in turn, increases the levels of melatonin in the brain.
L-Tryptophan may reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep.
We’ve developed an all natural sleep complex that contains these natural herbs and several others. It was formulated to be non-tolerance building and able to be used daily. If you have been looking for a little extra help getting restful sleep, give our Optimal Sleep Complex a try with our 30 day money back guarantee it’s a no-brainer.
Also read our blog on MCT Oil vs. Coconut Oil: 3 Added Benefits of MCT Oil
