RESOURCE
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January 20, 2017

Dietary Zinc Acts as a sleep Modulator

Research
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
SUMMARY

Zinc, an essential trace element, has been shown to influence sleep regulation in both humans and animals. Research highlights that zinc levels correlate with sleep quality and duration, with supplementation improving sleep onset and efficiency. Zinc appears to affect sleep through its role in the brain's neurotransmitter systems, particularly glutamate and glycine pathways. This research underscores the importance of adequate zinc intake for maintaining healthy sleep patterns, which are vital for cognitive function, memory consolidation, and overall brain health.

RECOMMENDATION

Include zinc-rich foods like oysters, meat, and legumes in your diet to support sleep quality. Zinc supplements may also help, but consult a healthcare provider before use. While promising, findings are limited by studies involving combined supplements or small sample sizes, so broader research is needed for definitive conclusions.

TAGS
sleep regulation; brain health; cognitive function; neurotransmitters; NREM sleep; nutrition; zinc
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