Article Courtesy of Wellness Alternatives
Does sleep elude you? Are you fatigued? In a 2009 survey, 66% of patients reported they were not sleeping well. One in three believes sleep problems affected their ability to enjoy work and life. 6 of every 10 Americans experience chronic sleep disturbances or insomnia more than 4 days a week. Common symptoms associated with insomnia can include mood changes, inability to focus, insomnia, fatigue, anxiety, and depression.
Where is your sleep cycle broken?
Hormone changes associated with aging are commonly blamed for sleep issues. Aging is not the problem. However, the root of sleeplessness can be found by examining the neurotransmitter brain-body connection. Neurotransmitters are the key chemical messengers of the nervous system and allow for communication between cells and the regulation of basic body functions. Chronic stress, poor diet, genetic predisposition, toxic exposure, blood sugar imbalance, infection, and allergies can alter essential biochemical pathways. Fundamental imbalances and alterations in neurotransmitter signaling are often overlooked by practitioners, which can lead to misdiagnosis or unnecessary prescription of synthetic ‘band-aiding’ of symptoms.
Neurotransmitters and Hormones.
Neurotransmitters are messengers for hormone release. Neurotransmitter imbalances can lead to or exacerbate hormone imbalances. For example, symptoms like waking in the middle of the night or hot flashes disturbing sleep can sometimes appear as a hormone issue when it is actually actuality a neurotransmitter imbalance. There is direct correlation between 1) Estradiol and Serotonin, 2) Progesterone and GABA, and 3) Cortisol and Monoamines.
Testing.
Assessing essential neurotransmitter levels (we test 12), along with assessment of hormone levels and adrenal function, provides important insight into the root causes of sleep impairment, hormone imbalance, immune conditions, and chronic illnesses. A simple urine and saliva test collected in the privacy of your own home can identify hormone and neurotransmitter imbalances that lead to sleep disturbances. (Most insurance will cover this testing.)
Treatment.
We promote a balance of amino acids, nutrients, botanicals, and foods to improve pathways and performance of neurotransmitters based on scientific testing. Please note side effects may include the absence of hot flashes, mental clarity, energy, lower levels of systemic inflammation, and a healthier immune system.
Put your mind and body to rest. Take charge of your sleep today. Sleep better, faster. Wellness Alternatives, 266 Lamp and Lantern Village, Town and Country, MO. 636-227-4949. Sltwa.com.