Vitamin deficiencies can interfere with sleep quality by affecting relaxation, blood flow, and brain function, making the focus keyphrase essential for wellness.
DUBAI: If you’ve been struggling with sleep and can’t pinpoint the reason, your diet may be the missing link. Research shows that vitamin and mineral deficiencies could be quietly disrupting your ability to fall and stay asleep — and the effects can be more significant than many realise.
One of the most crucial minerals for sleep is magnesium. Known for its calming effect on the nervous system, magnesium helps regulate neurotransmitters that control sleep. A deficiency in this essential nutrient can lead to difficulty falling asleep, frequent night wakings, and restless sleep.
Other key nutrients, such as iron and B vitamins (particularly B12), also play a vital role in maintaining sleep health. These nutrients support healthy blood production and circulation, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the brain during rest. When iron or vitamin B12 levels are low, oxygen delivery may be compromised, leading to symptoms like fatigue and insomnia.
Health professionals often recommend checking for nutrient deficiencies before turning to sleep medications, which may come with unwanted side effects. Addressing these imbalances through a balanced diet or supplements can naturally restore better sleep cycles.
By understanding how vitamin deficiencies impact sleep, individuals can take a more informed, holistic approach to improving their nightly rest — starting from what’s on their plate.
This article is contributed by Dr. Amir Firouzjaei, Chinese Medicine Practitioner, Wellth
