Many Americans wrestle with sleep problems and high cholesterol. Data gathered by the National Center for Sleep Disorders Research at the National Institutes of Health reveals that about 30 to 40 percent of adults wrestle with insomnia symptoms within a given year, while 10 to 15 percent say that for them, insomnia is a chronic issue. High cholesterol is just as prevalent. According to the American Heart Association, it's estimated that 98.6 million Americans have blood cholesterol values that are in the high-risk or borderline-high-risk range. Natural, holistic approaches may be used to treat sleep and cholesterol problems.
Step 1
Investigate chelation. In her book "Detoxify or Die," Dr. Sherry Rogers states that an excess of heavy metals in the system can damage the body's mechanism for cholesterol control. We are all exposed to toxic heavy metals such as cadmium, mercury and lead--they're in the foods we eat, the products we use and the air we breathe. Chelation therapy removes these metals from the body--this therapy may be administered orally, intravenously or via suppositories. Rogers cites case studies from her own practice showing chelation's cholesterol-lowering effect. Interestingly, many of these patients also report improved sleep and other health benefits in the wake of chelation therapy.
Step 2
Change your diet. In a clinical study published by Medscape Medical News, a diet rich in soy protein, viscous fiber (such as oats and barley) and nuts was shown to be just as effective at lowering cholesterol as commonly prescribed statin drugs like lovostatin. Aim to consume some of these foods at every meal, while seeking to reduce or eliminate unhealthful choices like fried foods and trans fats.
Step 3
Try melatonin. Secreted by the brain's pineal gland, melatonin is a hormone that governs the body's circadian rhythm. As the body's internal time-keeping system, the circadian rhythm determines when we fall asleep and when we wake up. The University of Maryland Medical Center cites studies showing that melatonin supplementation can serve to decrease the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, increase sleeping hours and boost daytime alertness. Melatonin supplements are available at most health food stores.
Tips and Warnings
- Chelation therapy can sometimes cause fatigue in the initial stages. If you experience this, simply cut back on your dosage.
- Melatonin can reduce the antidepressant effects of certain medications. If you are on antidepressants, consult your doctor before using melatonin.
Things You'll Need
- Melatonin
- Chelation tablets or suppositories
- Nuts
- Foods rich in soy protein and fiber
References
- Diet May Lower Cholesterol As Much As Statins
- "Detoxify or Die;" Sherry Rogers, M.D.; 2002
- University of Maryland Medical Center
