The Natural Sleep Aid Blog

The age of technology has exponentially made available to us the amount of useful information that can better influence our decisions, as well as open the door to many opportunities. However, while it is tempting to use the Internet as sole source of information, it can also be dangerous.

There are many reputable sources of information on the Internet, however for every site that is legitimate; there are others that are not. For this reason, most information that is found on the Web should be taken with a grain of salt. Additionally, while there are instances where patients have been able to cure their mysterious ailment by searching the web, medical professionals spend years in school to better understand the biology, chemistry and physics of how the body works, and are therefore still the best source of diagnosis and treatment.

Hypochondriacs are people who always think they have some serious sickness.  However, the Internet has provided them, as well as others with a new avenue to make a self diagnosis.

Self-diagnosis is very dangerous in that treating the true cause of sickness can be overlooked and proper, effective treatment could be postponed. This can lead to much more serious problems as well as the onset of new problems.

Also on the Internet, information could be false or partial. Misleading information or partial information can lead to a misdiagnosis, but it can be good because it starts conversation with the doctor.

Aside from the fact that information on the Web is quick and convenient, the rising cost of health care has lead more people to treat themselves at home. Studies also show that nearly 80 % of adults who are online go online to look up health information.  The most popular searches are to look for a diet pill online, and other items associated with the best way to lose weight. Product reviews are also popular. Such reviews include hoodia reviews and reviews on other herbal remedies.

Occasionally we all have periods during which we feel exhausted. This feeling of exhaustion can be attributed to many different reasons. While some of those reasons are health related, other contributing factors are ones that we can control such as diet, exercise and lifestyle.

The diet we consume is very much responsible for how we feel. Case in point; after a large meal that is loaded with carbohydrates, fats and sugars, or just eating too much in general, we often feel sleepy, and lethargic.  Wanting to run and take a nap after dinner is a sure sign that too much was consumed or the wrong foods in general were consumed. If overeating is an issue, there are products on the market containing hoodia gordonii that can help suppress the appetite and decrease calorie consumption. Most people feel better when lighter foods and meals are eaten in smaller portions. Smaller meals that are divided up throughout the day as opposed to big large meals are the best way to lose weight and eliminate tiredness. Also, meals that contain any amount of protein, whether it be from lean meats or a whey protein powder mix promote feelings of fullness.

Complementing diet is exercise. Living a sedentary lifestyle with little exercise can contribute to perpetual lethargic feelings. While it may seem difficult to get going initially, it is the first initial effort that is the hardest. Making something a habit takes about 2-3 weeks. Once a healthy habit of walking, for example, is initiated, it will be hard to do without. Getting some exercise promotes better sleep at night and better eating habits in general.

Trying to stick with a workout routine is hard enough. Tossing in a new location, time zone, and climate makes it all that much more difficult. Sticking to a workout routine while on the road is very important, even though it may not be as long and intense as one that would be done under normal circumstances, any exercise is better than no exercise.

There are many factors that can cause stress on our body as we travel. Adjusting to a time change and new climate are starters. Also adjusting to new surroundings can be a source of stress. The best way to overcome these factors is to exercise. Keeping up with some form of exercise is the best way to keep up energy levels. Travelling can be a fun but draining experience. Packing a pair of gym shoes opens up many possibilities. Taking a walk first thing in the morning is the best way to lose weight and provides a great way to get out and see the sites.  Plus you never know where your travels will lead. You may stumble upon some great coffee shop or breath taking view.

Taking an early morning walk can also help the body adjust to the time zone and climate. Traveling over one or more time zones can mess with your body’s natural rhythm. Getting used to the time change can be made easier on the body with exposure to sunlight.

Checking out the newspaper can also be a great opportunity to experience the area like a local. For example, you may find that yoga is offered on the beach at sunrise, or nature hikes through mountain areas are offered. This is a great way to experience something new and exciting as well as eliminate stress.

In addition to exercising, eating right and getting enough sleep are equally important. It may be tempting to give in to every temptation while dining on the road. Many people have found that suppressing hunger can be safely done with hoodia extract or a diet pill.

Finally, the importance of getting enough sleep cannot be stressed enough. Because travelling can cause a lot of stress on the body, resting and relaxing are very important. Getting enough rest will help to fight off colds that may be caused from cramped airlines and other public places.

Almost synonymous for the word turkey, tryptophan is as Thanksgiving as pumpkin pie. Said to be responsible for the entire couch -napping male population after Thanksgiving dinner, tryptophan affects the levels of serotonin in the brain, inducing a feeling of sleepiness.

So what exactly is it about tryptophan that brings on slumber? The answer lies in the chemical composition of tryptophan. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that the body needs, and could be found in foods rich in protein content such as poultry, eggs, chocolate, and cheeses. Being an essential amino acid means that it is critical to health and body function; however it is not an amino acid that the body can make on its own. For this reason, food is the only source of this dietary staple, and turkey is an excellent source of it.

Tryptophan also shows promise as an effective anti-depressant and well as PMS aid.  Serotonin, a hormone that causes a feeling of calm and peace is increased in the presence of tryptophan.  This increased level of serotonin induces sleepiness.  It is considered by some as one of the greatest natural sleep aids.  

While tryptophan is a promoter of sleep, often the sleep that results from Turkey Day over- indulgence is from over-loading on carbohydrates and alcohol. Portion control and loading up on vegetables as opposed to stuffing are the best weight loss tips for Thanksgiving.

Remembering that the best way to lose weight is through diet and exercise, taking a long walk outside with family and friends after dinner is a great way to bond and work off that extra slice of pie!