If you find yourself tossing and turning at night, you’re not alone.
Many people, especially those over 65, struggle with poor sleep quality.
But recent research has uncovered a natural supplement that might help you not only get better sleep but also improve your gut health at the same time.
There is an exciting link between sleep and the gut, and scientists have identified a supplement that could be key to supporting both.
A study conducted by the National University of Singapore has confirmed the connection between sleep and gut health.
While previous research has suggested a relationship between these two important aspects of well-being, this new study offers something more.
It reveals a specific nutrient that can improve both sleep quality and gut health.
The clinical trial, which lasted for 12 weeks and was published in the journal Clinical Nutrition, focused on a naturally occurring nutrient called 5-HTP, also known as 5-Hydroxytryptophan.
The researchers found that this supplement not only helped improve sleep quality in older adults but also had a positive impact on the gut microbiome.
This effect was especially noticeable in those who had poor sleep before the study began.
The participants who struggled with sleep saw a significant increase in two key indicators of gut health: gut microbiota diversity and the abundance of beneficial gut bacteria.
These findings are important because they show that addressing sleep problems with 5-HTP may also lead to improvements in overall gut health, making it a valuable tool for enhancing both areas of wellness.
While 5-HTP offers a promising solution, it’s not the only natural way to support sleep and gut health.
There are several other simple strategies that you can incorporate into your daily routine to improve both.
Including foods rich in prebiotic fibers, such as garlic and onions, can help feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut while also potentially improving sleep quality by reducing stress.
Drinking chamomile tea before bed can promote relaxation and provide anti-inflammatory benefits that support the gut.
Tart cherry juice, which is rich in melatonin, can also help you sleep better and is packed with antioxidants that benefit gut health.
Fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut are known for their probiotic content, and these probiotics can support both gut and sleep health.
Magnesium is another important nutrient for sleep regulation and digestive health, and it can be found in foods like spinach and pumpkin seeds.
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation, are effective at improving sleep quality while reducing stress, which supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Herbs like valerian root, which has been used for centuries to aid sleep, may also have a positive impact on gut health by reducing inflammation.
And of course, regular exercise benefits both sleep and gut health, so aiming for moderate physical activity most days of the week is a great way to support both.
By adopting these natural strategies, you are not only improving your sleep but also nurturing your gut health at the same time.
This dual approach can enhance your overall well-being and help you feel better both during the night and throughout the day.
Take care, and may you sleep well and feel great!