Did you know that most of today’s population suffers from low vitamin D? Did you also know that low levels of this vitamin can cause insomnia and other forms of sleep disorders? Doesn’t sound good, right?
Unless you always get enough sun exposure daily, taking a D vitamin supplement is the easiest way for you to boost your current levels. But, there are many nuances when it comes to taking this vitamin and the amount you should be taking.
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Sleep and D Vitamin
Over half of the population of the world suffers from D vitamin deficiency. This is a problem since your body makes use of this vitamin for almost all systems in your body, from supporting immunity to maintaining better bone health. Low levels of D vitamin have a direct relation to the quality and amount of sleep you are getting.
Vitamin D and sleep quality go hand-in-hand
Research has revealed that there are receptors of this vitamin that can be found in the specific brain areas responsible for sleep regulation. It has also been discovered that low levels of this vitamin are linked with poor quality of sleep. Those who loaded up on their D vitamin levels were able to notice a remarkable improvement in their neurologic symptoms and sleep.
Another study looked at sleep quality and D vitamin levels. They measured wake times and frequency, total sleep time, and sleep efficiency that measure the time spent sleeping and the time spent in bed. This study discovered that low D vitamin levels have something to do with sleeping less than five hours per night and poor quality sleep. Low levels were related to lower scores of sleep efficiency as well.
This is only a quick look at the role that D vitamin plays in a person’s sleep. One more study about sleep quality and vitamin D in patients undergoing hemodialysis suggested that the vitamin might affect shut eye through its interaction with the parts of the brain believed to regulate sleep. The vitamin also plays a critical role in supporting the immune system while managing inflammation might also support better quality of sleep.
Aside from the amount, it is also important for you to pay attention to the time when you take this particular vitamin.
When Should You Take Vitamin D for Better Sleep?
Early studies suggest that D vitamin is inversely related to the sleep hormone melatonin. It means that an increase in D vitamin levels may help suppress the melatonin levels. Thus, it just makes sense that taking this vitamin at night might lead to sleep disruption.
Video: Get Restorative Sleep with Vitamin D
It would be better to take it in the morning to enjoy a great sleep at night. It is also important to pay attention to what you feel every time you make small changes. If you decide to take the vitamin before going to sleep, pay attention to what you feel the following day.
One more advantage of taking vitamin D during morning is that it is a fat-soluble vitamin. This means that it can be absorbed best if you take this with food. Enjoy a cup of your favorite Mexican Coffee or have it with a hearty breakfast.
Be sure to take your vitamin D on the right time to harness its fullest benefits!
