The ability to shut down at the end of the day requires a healthy system in all areas. This includes the nervous system, endocrine system, and digestive system on the physical plane, and in the soul plane, (mind, will, and emotions) we can see an even greater impact on the ability to attain and maintain peaceful, and refreshing sleep.
All too often, what’s transpired during the day, if not resolved in the mind, the thought processes will continue to turn over the information, trying to settle and solve the issue. This process will work like a cell phone constantly seeking a signal when out of range of a cell tower. Just like a cell phone out of signal range, the constant seeking will eventually run down the batteries. That is why this kind of insomnia will wear a person down over time.
Years ago when there were only a small handful of advertisements for medications. The dominant ones were for either heartburn or for insomnia. After years of shutting down digestion, the market has been flooded with a plethora of drugs used to shut down all the secondary symptoms of malnutrition. Insomnia is still one of those problems which can be attributed to poor nutrition.
When the ability to digest and absorb adequate nutrition and maintain stable blood sugar levels has been compromised, we can see a rapid drop in blood sugar signaling the adrenals to secrete cortisol in a desperate attempt to extract glycogen from the liver, as a means of maintaining blood sugar levels. A cortisol release can also result in an adrenalin release. When we have elevated adrenalin, sleep is not on the menu.
When blood sugar imbalances appear to be the cause of insomnia, correcting digestion and improving liver function can make dramatic improvements in sleep. Besides better blood sugar stability from improved digestion, mineral absorption is improved. When you realize your thought processes rely on electricity, and your body’s electricity is dependent on minerals, or electrolytes, anything which impairs mineral absorption or conservation will impact nerve function, and sleep. This is especially true of the use of antacids.
Absorption of many minerals is dependent on adequate stomach acids. The use of acid blocking drugs can dramatically increase your dependence on sleep drugs. This is and example of where we see one drug leading to the use of many drugs. Digestive weakness and poor mineral balance has proven to be an area, which when fixed, can produce dramatic benefits.
Unresolved stress, worry, fear, and dread are like planting a virus in your computer. The mind will focus on the area of concern and try to solve it even in the subconscious, putting a chronic drain on the system. Although we live in a time of great blessings and prosperity, we see many areas that stimulate concern. Being able to separate the real from the imagined is important, and being able to shut down and turn your cares over to a greater power can greatly improve your wellbeing and ability to enjoy peaceful rest.
Correcting a deficiency of nerve relaxing B vitamins in combination with proper mineral support has relieved many patients who've suffered chronic insomnia. Simple carbohydrates before bed initiate increased insulin release with a corresponding drop in blood sugar. Cutting these out in the evening is important to a good night’s sleep. This is why proteins and good fats before bed can temper the nervous system, allowing for better sleep.
One of my favorite nutritional supports for chronic insomnia is called MinChex. This involves nerve calming B vitamins and minerals. This product from Standard Process is very specific when dealing with sympathetic overdrive. This is a flight or fight response that can be modified well with this awesome nutritional support.