There’s no denying that getting enough sleep is important for our overall health and well-being. But did you know that zinc has now been shown to play a role in our sleep patterns?
Zinc is a mineral found in foods like oysters, beef, and spinach, as well as in supplement form. But while zinc is essential for our health, it can have a sedative effect on the body.
Now, if you’re taking your zinc at night, that’s not a bad thing because the last thing you want is tossing and turning all night with the alarm set for 6 am.
But feeling sleepy is far from ideal if you’re trying to get stuff done in the middle of the day.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the effects of zinc on sleep and when the best time to take it is.
Let’s dive in!
What Is Zinc and Why Do We Need It?
Zinc is an essential nutrient required for several important bodily functions in the body, including immune function, cell growth, and wound healing. The body needs zinc to make proteins and DNA, and it helps the enzymes that regulate metabolism work properly.
Zinc also strengthens the immune system and helps the body heal wounds. It’s certainly possible to get enough zinc from the diet alone, but some groups are at risk for zinc deficiency, including pregnant women, vegetarians, and people with certain medical conditions.
While zinc is found in various foods, including seafood, poultry, red meat, beans, nuts, and whole grains, many people do not get enough of this vital nutrient.
As a result, zinc supplements are often recommended for people at risk for zinc deficiency. For most people, taking a zinc supplement can help ensure they get enough of this important mineral.
What Happens If We Don’t Get Enough Zinc?
Zinc is an essential nutrient required for many critical bodily functions, and a deficiency can have serious consequences. Not getting enough can cause a number of problems, including stunted growth, skin problems, and a weakened immune system.
A zinc deficiency is most common in developing countries, where diets are often deficient in zinc-rich foods, such as meat, poultry, and seafood. It is also common in people with certain medical conditions, such as malabsorption disorders, chronic liver disease, and chronic kidney disease.
There are many reasons why you may be at risk of a zinc deficiency, including poor diet, certain health conditions, and certain medications. If you think you may be at risk of a deficiency, you must speak to your doctor or a registered dietitian.
If you’re not getting enough zinc in your diet, it’s essential to take steps to correct the deficiency. The best way to ensure you’re getting enough zinc is to eat a varied diet that includes plenty of zinc-rich foods, such as oysters, beef, lamb, pumpkin seeds, and dark chocolate. You can also take a zinc supplement to make sure you’re getting enough of this important nutrient.
Zinc and Sleep: How are They Linked?
Most people are familiar with the benefits of zinc for boosting immunity and promoting wound healing, but did you know that this essential mineral can also help you get a good night’s sleep?
Zinc plays a role in regulating sleep and research shows that people with zinc deficiency are more likely to experience insomnia. Getting enough zinc can help to improve sleep quality and duration, and it may also help to reduce the risk of sleep disorders such as sleep apnea.
In addition to getting enough zinc from dietary sources, a zinc supplement can also help improve sleep. If you’re struggling with insomnia, talk to your doctor about whether adding zinc to your diet or taking a supplement might be right for you.
When Is The Best Time To Take Zinc?
Getting enough sleep is essential for good health, but getting the shut-eye you need can be challenging when you’re dealing with a busy schedule. One way to help improve your sleep quality is to take zinc before bed.
Zinc is a mineral that plays a vital role in many biological processes, including sleep regulation. Studies have shown that taking zinc before bed can help reduce sleepiness during the day and improve sleep quality at night.
If you’re having trouble sleeping, try taking zinc 30 minutes before bed. You may find that it helps you to get the restful night’s sleep you need.
How to Get Your Daily Dose of Zinc
As you’ll now know, getting enough zinc each day is vital for more reasons than one. So, if you’re looking to increase your intake, here are some tips for getting your daily dose of zinc:
- Include zinc-rich foods in your diet: oysters, beef, chicken, legumes, wheat germ, and pumpkin seeds are all excellent sources of zinc.
- Take a supplement: if you’re not getting enough zinc from your diet, consider taking a supplement. Just make sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement.
- Eat more zinc-fortified foods: many breakfast cereals and some types of bread are fortified with zinc. Check the label to see how much zinc is in each serving.
Need a convenient way to top up on zinc? Performance Lab NutriGenesis Multi has you covered. It provides a solid dose of this essential mineral alongside several other nutrients that keep your body functioning correctly day in, day out!
And if you need an extra boost for immunity or want more peace of mind when battling that cold? Look no further than Performance Lab PL Immune!
Summary – Does Zinc Make You Sleepy?
While zinc may not be the direct cause of sleepiness, it is important to note that taking zinc supplements can have other consequences on your body.
If you are feeling exhausted, consult with a doctor before taking any zinc supplements, and make sure to drink plenty of water.
That way, you can err on the side of caution and receive expert advice on when and how to get your daily dose of this essential nutrient!
Leave a Reply