Roughly 70 million people in the country experience recurring sleep problems which can negatively impact energy levels, mood and overall health.  In addition to lowered concentration and awareness, research shows that inadequate sleep raises risks for substance abuse, depression, diabetes, obesity and premature aging.

While some think less sleep adds to productivity, insufficient sleep commonly reduces productivity in the workplace.  In fact, lack of sleep costs American businesses roughly 45 billion dollars per year in unrealized productivity!

Neurotransmitters found in the brain help to regulate human behavior.  Dopamine, adrenaline and serotonin are types that are associated with mood.  When high quantities of adrenaline and dopamine are produced in the brain, it becomes alert and aware.  High levels of serotonin in contrast, cause the brain to relax.  Serotonin appears to be associated with rapid eye movement (REM) sleep - the cycle of sleep in which dreaming occurs.

Sweet Dreams™ is an all-natural sleep aid that has been scientifically developed to replenish serotonin levels, ensuring proper cycles of REM and deep sleep.  Unlike other sleep aids, Sweet Dreams™ does not demand an expensive prescription or repeated visits to a physician.  This natural product helps enhance drowsiness with no danger of dependence and without unpleasant side effects.

You can find these active ingredients in Sweet Dreams™:

5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP):  This is a compound obtained from the seeds of Griffonia simplicifolia, a plant native to Africa.  5-HTP appears to enhance the production of serotonin and has been shown to lower the amount of time it takes to fall asleep and increase the duration of REM and deep sleep.

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA):  An amino acid manufactured in the brain, GABA is also important to serotonin production.  Too little GABA in the brain can result in irritability, anxiety and insomnia.  Clinically, GABA has been used for promotion of relaxation and sleep, as a muscle relaxant and for increased lean muscle and reduced body fat.

Glycine:  This is an amino acid helpful for detoxification, muscle function and relaxation.  Glycine is considered essential to the central nervous system and is used in the treatment of jet lag.  It is important for the production of creatine which restores energy to muscles and nerves during sleep.

Melatonin:  A powerful antioxidant and all-natural sleep aid, melatonin is a compound secreted by the pineal gland.  Unfortunately, the amount of melatonin produced by the body lessens as we get older.

Passionflower:  Alkaloids and flavonoids present in passionflower are said to have a sedative effect in tests with animals.  One specific flavonoid, apigenin, has been found to help reduce blood pressure and anxiety levels in people.

Lemon Balm:  This member of the mint family is said to have antispasmodic and antibacterial properties.

Hops:  Used in the production of beer and as a time-tested sleep aid, the active compounds in hops are flavonoids and alpha bitter acid.

Chamomile:  Found in teas, essential oils and sachets, chamomile contains chrysin, a chemical that helps to ease anxiety and promote sleep.

Adequate sleep is important for cell maintenance, for bolstering the memory, for reducing inflammation in the body and for preventing many types of disease.

Here are a few suggestions for a better night’s sleep:

• Cut back on (or eliminate) caffeine and sugar – especially later in the day.
• Get at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise early in the day.
• Make lunch your largest daily meal.
• Incorporate foods high in tryptophan - like turkey, bananas, milk and yogurt – in to your evening meal.
• Avoid foods in the evening that contain tyromine - like pork, chocolate, cheese, eggplant and wine - which triggers the release of norepinephrine, a brain stimulant.  
• Stop smoking as nicotine is a stimulant.
• Draw a warm bath before bedtime with chamomile and lavender essential oils. 
• Try Sweet Dreams™ - available through the Institute for Vibrant Living (www.ivlproducts.com). 

Sources:
http://www.ivlproducts.com/Content/Brochures/SWD212.pdf