Sleep and Insomnia

What Are Sleep Issues & Insomnia?

 

Sleep issues, from occasional sleepless nights to chronic insomnia, can leave you feeling drained, irritable, and unproductive. Poor sleep isn’t just about quantity; it’s about quality. You can spend hours in bed, but if you’re tossing and turning or waking up frequently, you’re not getting the restorative sleep your body needs. Inadequate sleep can lead to hormone imbalances, digestive problems, mood swings, and even fatigue. Tackling sleep problems is about more than just counting sheep—it’s about addressing the underlying factors that are disrupting your sleep.

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Common Symptoms of Sleep Issues & Insomnia

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• Difficulty falling asleep (takes over 30 minutes to fall asleep)

• Waking up frequently throughout the night, even just to pee

• Waking up too early and unable to fall back asleep

• Feeling unrested or groggy upon waking

• Trouble staying asleep for a full night

• Racing thoughts or anxiety before bed

• Difficulty relaxing or winding down

• Daytime fatigue, brain fog, and irritability

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Why Do Sleep Issues Happen?

 

Sleep problems can be caused by a combination of factors, often linked to your hormones, stress levels, and lifestyle habits. Here’s what might be affecting your rest:

• Hormonal Imbalances: Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels, particularly in perimenopause and menopause, can lead to disrupted sleep patterns. Low progesterone, in particular, is linked to difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep.

• Chronic Stress: High cortisol levels from ongoing stress can interfere with your sleep cycles, making it difficult to wind down and sleep soundly. The body’s inability to regulate cortisol at night can lead to poor sleep quality.

• Blood Sugar Imbalances: Fluctuations in blood sugar, particularly after eating sugary or high-carb meals, can cause energy crashes and night wakings.

• Gut Health Issues: Poor digestion, an imbalance in gut bacteria, or inflammation in the gut can contribute to poor sleep, as the gut plays a significant role in regulating the nervous system.

• Lifestyle Factors: Caffeine, alcohol, screen time, and inconsistent sleep schedules can also impact your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep.

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How Dr. Maya Matthews Helps You Get Better Sleep Naturally

 

Rather than relying on medications or sleep aids, I take a holistic approach to help you restore healthy, restful sleep. By addressing the root causes of your sleep problems, we can create a personalized plan that supports your body’s natural sleep rhythm.

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1. Balancing Hormones for Restorative Sleep

 

Hormonal imbalances, particularly during perimenopause and menopause, can throw off your sleep. By focusing on balancing your hormones, I can help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling rested. Progesterone, in particular, is essential for deep, uninterrupted sleep, and we focus on supporting its production.

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2. Supporting Your Nervous System and Stress Response

 

Chronic stress and high cortisol levels can disrupt your sleep cycle, keeping you in a state of alertness rather than relaxation. I work with you to manage stress, support your adrenal glands, and improve your body’s ability to wind down. This helps reset your stress response, making it easier for you to relax and fall asleep.

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3. Optimizing Nutrition and Blood Sugar Balance

 

Fluctuations in blood sugar levels can cause night wakings and disrupt your sleep. By improving your diet and stabilizing blood sugar levels, I help you avoid the energy crashes that can leave you wide awake at 2 a.m. A balanced diet rich in whole foods supports your energy levels and encourages better sleep.

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4. Improving Gut Health for Better Sleep

 

Your gut is the cornerstone of your health, and it directly impacts your sleep. If your gut is inflamed or not functioning optimally, it can interfere with your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep. I help heal your gut, regulate digestion, and improve your microbiome to support better sleep patterns.

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5. Creating Consistent Sleep Hygiene Practices

 

Getting restful sleep also requires creating the right environment and habits. I’ll help you optimize your sleep hygiene by setting a consistent sleep schedule, reducing blue light exposure, and implementing habits that promote relaxation. This makes it easier for your body to fall into a deep, restorative sleep.

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Targeted Supplements for Sleep Support

 

Certain supplements can provide natural support for sleep, helping you get the rest you deserve. Here are some targeted options:

• Magnesium Glycinate – Helps relax muscles, calm the nervous system, and promote restful sleep.

• Melatonin – A natural sleep hormone that helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle.

• L-theanine – Supports relaxation and reduces anxiety, making it easier to fall asleep.

• GABA – An inhibitory neurotransmitter that helps calm the nervous system and supports deep sleep.

• Valerian Root – A well-known herb that helps improve sleep quality and reduce the time it takes to fall asleep.

• Ashwagandha – An adaptogen that helps regulate cortisol levels and support a healthy stress response, leading to better sleep.

• Tart Cherry Extract – Naturally high in melatonin, this extract helps support a healthy sleep-wake cycle.

• Vitamin B6 – Supports the production of serotonin and melatonin, which are essential for sleep regulation.

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Take the Next Step

 

If you’re tired of sleepless nights and the constant fatigue that follows, it’s time to take control of your sleep. By addressing the root causes of your insomnia and creating a personalized plan, you can finally get the restful, rejuvenating sleep you deserve.

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Book a consultation today to start your journey toward better sleep, more energy, and improved overall wellness.