Sleep quality and quantity are important for muscle building, metabolism, recovery, mood, and hormonal balance. There are so many other benefits of quality sleep, I could write a lengthy essay. Instead, I will highlight just some of the implications of poor sleep. Without proper sleep, your hormonal balance will be compromised. This results in: lack of energy, depressed mood, poor mental focus, weakness, soreness, and increased fat storage.
Try to maintain a natural sleep cycle. That is going to bed when it typically gets dark. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep. Make sure to keep the noise levels low and sleep in a dark and cool room. Also, make sure you do not have any electronics in your bedroom. Your melatonin levels will be affected and the quality of your sleep will be compromised.
If you are having consistent poor sleep, you may want to go to a sleep clinic to find out what the reason(s). You can also try 3-5mg of melatonin (preferably sublingual for fast action) an hour before you go to bed (
Source Naturals Melatonin 2.5mg Sublingual Orange 120Tabs
). Some foods and drinks that will help induce sleep are; turkey, milk, and camomile tea. If your sleep patterns do not normalize within two weeks of taking this supplement, go to the sleep clinic.
