By Christine Cheng, R.Ph. and Fred Cheng, R.Ph
For those familiar with the sitcom “Seinfeld”, you may remember the episode where the character, George utters the phrase “serenity now” whenever he got frustrated. For those familiar with lying awake at night, you may also be hoping for some “serenity now”…and with the natural supplement “CERENITY PM” from Ortho Molecular Products ®, you may finally feel serene enough at bedtime to get some sleep!
The unique formula is geared towards supporting the synthesis and preservation of neurotransmitters (the brain’s communication molecules) that are involved in inducing and regulation sleep as well as regulating sleep.
Gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the brain meaning if we activate its receptors, we feel more calm and drowsy. Serenity PM contains PharmaGABA®, a patented GABA sourced from the natural fermentation of kimchi. When supplemented before bedtime, GABA can reduce sleep latency (i.e., reduce the time it takes to fall asleep) and increase time spent in deep sleep. It can increase the ratio of alpha to beta waves in the brain which is important for sleep because alpha waves are associated with a calm and relaxed state. TAURINE, an amino acid that has neuroprotective (as well as cardioprotective) properties is included because it supports the action of GABA by activating GABA receptors.
Cerenity PM also contains 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), a source of tryptophan, the amino acid important for the synthesis of both serotonin and melatonin. As such, supplementation with 5-HTP can help with mood as well as sleep. By boosting the levels of melatonin a.k.a. the “sleep hormone”, 5-HTP supplementation can increase time spent in stage 3 and 4 of sleep, which are REM or deep sleep stages.
Many people report feeling exhausted, but still, sleep eludes them. This may be due to being over-stressed leading to an excess release of cortisol. Excess cortisol not only makes it more difficult to fall asleep, it is associated with frequent night-time awakenings. Cerenity PM addresses this issue with the inclusion of PHOSPHATIDYLSERINE (PS), which can help regulate cortisol levels leading to a reduction in the number of awakenings experienced per night.
The vitamins and minerals included in this formula further support relaxation and neurotransmitter synthesis. For example, magnesium contributes to muscle relaxation, cortisol regulation and reduces the impact of other neurotransmitters that can activate the brain. Calcium is critical for melatonin synthesis.
Of course, serene and restful sleep does not simply come out of a bottle. We must support our brain and body’s health by eating a healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables and adequate protein. Exercise has many benefits including helping mitigate stress and all of its harmful effects. Practice “sleep hygiene” which includes going to bed at a regular time, minimizing stimulant use (such as caffeine), and/or replacing t.v. or computer use with a good book before bed. If you do consider trying Cerenity PM, check with your pharmacist or doctor to make sure this product is appropriate for you.
(Christine and Fred Cheng are a passionate, charismatic sister-brother pharmacist team at their unique, family-owned and operated Pharmasave stores in Cloverdale and Steveston, B.C. They specialize in natural remedies and compounding for both human and veterinarian use. Everything mentioned in their article is available InStore. They would love to hear from you or meet you at one of their seminars. Of course, before you begin any activity program or try any OTC supplementation, check with your physician and pharmacist.)
***All information posted and shared by Cloverdale Pharmasave is offered to provide information and choices regarding nutritional support for various health concerns, none of which is intended to be a treatment protocol for any disease state. The information does not replace seeking professional advice from your physician. Consult your health care practitioner before taking dietary supplements.
Articles, Q&A, blog posts and all materials submitted for publishing is the intellectual property of Cloverdale Pharmacy Ltd – reproduction in part or whole without written consent and permission is prohibited.
