60% of women get a good night’s sleep
only a couple of times a week.
74% of stay-at-home moms can’t sleep.
72% of working moms can’t sleep.
80% of women are kept up worrying
about things.
80% of sleep-deprived women say
they just “suck it up” and go on with their
daily activities.
Note: Women are twice as likely to suffer
from insomnia as men .
Sources: The National Sleep Foundation; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office on Women’s Health
4. PUT THIS BAD HABIT TO BED: Counting Sheep. If you spend most nights of the week counting sheep and not sleeping, your sleep disturbance may be the result of another health culprit. Joint pain, restless legs, sleep apnea and even menopause
can cause less-than-restful nights, so it’s wise to share your specific sleep symptoms with your doctor.
If a health condition’s not to blame, a sleep-promoting medication may be warranted to help you get your zzz’s, but natural alternatives are worth trying first.
A special herbal combination
promotes healthy sleep patterns.
Ingredients combat stress
to relax and renew.
This “anti-aging” hormone promotes sleep naturally.
As a general rule, take one of these supplements—alone or in combination formulas—two hours before bedtime.
• Melatonin is a sleep-inducing hormone. Start with 0.25 mg and, if necessary, gradually increase it to 3 mg. If you feel groggy the next morning, you’ve probably taken too much.
• Theanine is the calming compound found in green and black tea. Look for Suntheanine in fine print on the label—it’s a standardized form of theanine. Try 100 to 200 mg.
•Valerian root extract is an herb used for centuries to enhance relaxation and promote restful sleep. Try 200 to 600 mg.
Note: Don’t combine these supplements with any prescription sleep meds unless your doctor says it’s all right. Finally, don’t drive after you take any of these supplements.
PHOTO: TRINET TE REED/GET T Y IMAGES
References:
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