If you are experiencing issues with sleep, you are not alone. According to a Consumer Reports survey, 8 out of 10 people surveyed have trouble sleeping at least once per week.
So, what do individuals turn to when they can't sleep? Sleeping pills. The problem, however, nearly 60 percent of them admitted feeling next-day drowsiness and confusion.
Sleeping drugs can carry over to the next day, leaving users feeling worse off than if they didn't take anything at all. Have you experienced these problems? Then it's time to start buying sleep vitamins instead.
Keep reading to learn what to learn tips on what to look out for when buying sleep vitamins to make sure you are getting the best product available.
1. Dig Through the Ingredients List
Labels on products can sometimes be deceiving with all the scientific names and ingredient blends that are listed. Some ingredients you may recognize, and many you probably won't.
It's critical when making these purchases you understand what to look for and what to avoid. Manufacturers will sometimes use deceptive practices in an attempt to hide or cover-up low-quality ingredients. Things to look for include:
- Fillers
- Binders
- Preservatives
- Artificial preservatives
- Artificial sweeteners
- Colors
There is a lot to look for when reviewing the product label. Try looking for companies that list ingredients individually and clearly state exactly how much of each ingredient it contains.
2. Review Manufacturer
Some supplement manufacturers will use superior ingredients when compared to others, making it critical to check the manufacturer when purchasing sleep supplements.
The first thing to look for is companies that have reputable vitamin websites. These companies will typically have consumer testimonies stating how the product works and how it has worked for them.
Excellent manufacturing companies will show a history of being an established brand that practices good ethics.
3. Check Reviews
One sure-fire way to determine how effective a product works is by checking online customer reviews. These are usually verified buyers who have actually purchased and tried the product.
Be careful though, as some companies have figured out a way to receive a favorable review in exchange for another product, coupon, etc. One way around this is by checking other websites for reviews and comparing them to see if they align. You can also visit specific users profiles who leave reviews and look for trends where they review products just for the incentives.
Most of the time, you won't run into this problem, but beware of deceptive reviews are becoming more prevalent in the supplement industry.w
4. Shop Around
Just because a manufacturer sells its product directly doesn't necessarily mean you should buy from them. Sometimes it's best to shop around and look for deals that various retailers are offering on the same product.
You may find a better deal at a different retailer, like Wal-Mart or Target. These retailers will usually run more promotions on products, giving you a chance to save on BOGO's or buy one and get the other half off. Also, keep an eye out for manufacturers coupons - these can be used at retail stores and take off a specified amount.
5. Research Main Ingredients
You have already dug through the "other ingredients" section of the ingredients label, looking for poor quality ingredients. Now it's time to look up the main ingredients to see what the research says about it.
You can usually find the main ingredients directly below the listed vitamins and minerals. A few important sleep vitamin ingredients to look for in supplements include:
Melatonin
Melatonin is one of the most commonly found ingredients in sleep vitamins. It's a natural hormone that helps regulate your internal clock or when you fall asleep and wake up.
L-Theanine
L-theanine is an amino acid that can be found in most types of tea. It helps the body relax into a state of calmness without causing drowsiness.
Magnesium
Magnesium is one of the most important minerals, being used in over 300 enzyme systems. It can act as a natural muscle relaxer and can also help promote the production of melatonin.
Natural Herbs
Natural herbs have been used for centuries as a remedy for sleep disorders, including herbs like lemon balm, passionflower, and valerian root. All of these ingredients can be found in these melatonin gummies.
6. Time Release Vs. Instant
You will notice some manufacturers say they have a "time-release" formula that will work up to eight hours or so.
These manufacturers will use a special capsule or pill designed to release amounts slowly, instead of breaking down all at once and entering the bloodstream like an instant formula.
Is it better? It depends on if you have a hard time falling asleep or staying asleep. A time-release formula will benefit those who tend to wake up throughout the night, and an instant release will benefit those who have a hard time falling asleep.
7. Natural Vs. Synthetic
Another thing to keep an eye out for is the ingredients being natural or synthetic.
Natural vitamins and minerals will be derived directly from food sources and can break down easier in your body for it to utilize. Synthetic formulas are man-made, created in a lab, and sometimes don't absorb as easily.
If you are faced with a decision, it's best to go with the natural vitamin as your body can recognize and utilize it easier.
8. Don't Go Cheap
You know the expression "you get what you pay for," and it is entirely true when it comes to sleep solutions as well.
Don't let the price intimidate you if you are on the fence about one product or the other. A lot of times, the cheap products will be filled with even cheaper fillers and binders.
Need More Information for Buying Sleep Vitamins?
Buying sleep vitamins can make a world of difference for those experiencing difficulty sleeping. Getting more sleep will allow you to do the things you love and help you feel your best.
For more information on supplements, and other sleeping tips, check out the rest of our website!
