Hormone changes during the menopause transition change our circadian rhythm and contribute to the sleep problems during menopause. Pre and post menopause insomnia has different causes, some hormone related, some age related. Premenopause insomnia is mostly due to rapid hormone fluctuations, post menopause due to permanently low hormone levels.
Melatonin, a hormone that is released when it gets dark (part of our circadian rhythm) declines as we get older. This makes us more sensitive to even the slightest disturbance. It is available as a supplement but should only be taken by women over 50.
Other than valerian (my favorite sleep remedy) there is passionflower, hops and ashwagandha. Ashwagandha has both calming and hormone balancing activity.
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Hormone changes during the menopause transition change our circadian rhythm and contribute to the sleep problems during menopause. Pre and post menopause insomnia has different causes, some hormone related, some age related. Premenopause insomnia is mostly due to rapid hormone fluctuations, post menopause due to permanently low hormone levels.
November 17, 2011 - 7:38amMelatonin, a hormone that is released when it gets dark (part of our circadian rhythm) declines as we get older. This makes us more sensitive to even the slightest disturbance. It is available as a supplement but should only be taken by women over 50.
Other than valerian (my favorite sleep remedy) there is passionflower, hops and ashwagandha. Ashwagandha has both calming and hormone balancing activity.
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