Posts Tagged ‘better sleep’
Most of us love the feeling of warm sunlight on our skin. It brightens our mood, makes outdoor adventures more fun, and gives everything a golden glow.
But sunlight is more than just pretty -it’s actually one of nature’s best health boosters.
From stronger bones to better sleep, stepping into the sunshine can give your mind and body a surprising number of benefits. Let’s explore why soaking up some rays is so good for you.
- Sunshine and Vitamin D: The Dynamic Duo
One of the biggest reasons sunlight is so important is because it helps your body make vitamin D. This vitamin is sometimes called the “sunshine vitamin” because your skin produces it when exposed to ultraviolet B (UVB) rays from the sun. Vitamin D is essential for strong bones, healthy muscles, and even a powerful immune system.
Research published in the Journal of Investigative Medicine (2011) found that people with healthy vitamin D levels had better resistance to infections. It’s also key for preventing osteoporosis, a condition where bones become weak and brittle. Just 10–20 minutes of sunshine a few times a week can often be enough to keep your vitamin D levels in good shape — though this can vary depending on your skin tone, where you live, and the time of year.
- Sunshine Boosts Your Mood
Ever notice how your spirits lift after a sunny day? That’s not just your imagination. Sunlight helps your brain release serotonin, a chemical that makes you feel calm, focused, and happy. Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression, which some people experience during darker winter months.
A review in The Lancet (2020) found that light therapy — exposing people to bright artificial light — was effective in improving mood and reducing depression symptoms. Natural sunlight works in a similar way, giving your spirits a natural lift.
- Better Sleep Thanks to the Sun
Here’s a fun fact: catching rays during the day can help you sleep better at night. How? Sunlight helps regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, which is your internal clock that tells you when to feel awake and when to feel sleepy.
Morning sunlight in particular signals your brain that it’s time to be alert. Later in the day, your body naturally releases melatonin, the “sleep hormone,” when it’s dark. A study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine (2014) showed that office workers with more natural light exposure slept longer and better than those without it.
- Sunlight Can Help Your Heart
Moderate sun exposure might even give your heart health a little boost. When sunlight hits your skin, it can help lower blood pressure by triggering the release of nitric oxide, a molecule that relaxes blood vessels. A study in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology (2014) suggested that this process could reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Social and Active Benefits
Finally, let’s not forget the lifestyle perks. Sunny weather encourages people to get outside — whether that’s walking, playing sports, or just hanging out with friends. Being outdoors often means more physical activity, which supports a healthier body and a sharper mind.
So, How Much Sun Do You Need?
Experts recommend a balance — enough to enjoy the benefits, but not so much that you risk sunburn or skin damage. 10–15 minutes of direct midday sun exposure on your face, arms, and legs, several times a week, is enough to get enough Vitamin D.
The ideal time is between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m., as the sun’s healthy rays are strongest then. Darker skin tones require longer exposure. If you like, you can use sunscreen on other parts of your body and take breaks in the shade as needed.
Summary
Sunlight is one of life’s simplest and most powerful health tools. It helps your body create essential vitamins, lifts your mood, improves sleep, and can even support your heart. So, the next time the sun is shining, step outside, take a deep breath, and let nature do some of its best work
Nutrition Breakthroughs
This health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.
Tammy M. of Meridian, Idaho says: “I was plagued with insomnia for five years and desperate for a breakthrough. Nothing has helped me more than Sleep Minerals — I’m so sold on them I could go door to door promoting them. I’m 60 years old and have never slept so soundly.”
Nutrition Education: Making Science-Based Food Choices Every Day – from Crisbie Coach
Posted on: August 27, 2025
This is a well-written and succinct overview of the basics of nutrition, food groups, and different diets. There’s some good info here. This health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and the natural solution for joint relief, allergies, pain relief and increased energy, Joints and More.
This is a valuable guide and overview of the health benefits of magnesium, its deficiency symptoms, its best food sources and more. According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, 50% of adults are deficient in magnesium and 75% of older adults are deficient
This health news is shared with you by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the effective natural sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and the natural solution for joint relief, allergies, pain relief and increased energy, Joints and More.
Slept badly? This is how you can get through the day after a disturbed night’s sleep
Posted on: August 18, 2025
Better sleep is something that millions of people with insomnia are looking for.
Per the American Academy of Sleep Medicine survey results, about 1 in 8 people, or 12% of Americans said they have been diagnosed with chronic insomnia.
What if one of the the keys to restful slumber could be related to what you put on your plate? Recent studies reveal that certain healthy carbohydrates can work wonders for improving sleep quality, helping you fall asleep faster and wake up less often. Here’s a breakdown of the top sleep-friendly carbs and how they benefit your body.
Sweet Potatoes: A Sleep Superfood
Sweet potatoes are not only delicious but also packed with sleep-promoting nutrients. High in potassium and magnesium, they help relax your muscles and reduce nighttime cramping. A 2022 study in the *Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine* highlighted that potassium-rich diets can reduce nighttime disruptions, making sweet potatoes an excellent choice for dinner.
Oats: The Comfort Carb
A bowl of oatmeal isn’t just a comforting snack; it’s a scientifically proven sleep booster. Oats are high in melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep cycles, and they’re also a great source of calcium, which helps the brain use the amino acid tryptophan to produce melatonin. Plus, oats contain slow-digesting fiber that keeps blood sugar stable, preventing nighttime awakenings. According to a study in *Nutrients*, calcium is a vital nutrient for improving deep sleep.
Bananas: Nature’s Nightcap
Bananas are a natural sleep aid, loaded with magnesium, potassium, and vitamin C, which supports healthy nerves and reduces stress. They also contain tryptophan, an amino acid that promotes relaxation. Regarding the magnesium contained in bananas, an analysis of several different studies explored the impact of magnesium supplementation on sleep quality. The findings revealed that magnesium not only improves overall sleep quality but also enhances sleep duration.
Brown Rice: For Slow and Steady Rest
Brown rice is a fantastic option for those who wake up frequently during the night. This whole grain provides steady energy and contains GABA, a natural brain chemical known for its calming effects on the nervous system. The Healthline website shared a study showing improved sleep from GABA supplementation. Brown rice is also a good source of the mineral manganese, which promotes strong, dense bones when combined with calcium and vitamin D.
According to the National Council on Aging, brown rice contains many of the B vitamins including B1, B3, B6, and B9. Vitamin B9, also known as folate, is a key player in helping the body produce serotonin and melatonin for a good night’s sleep
Quinoa: Iron for Strong Sleep
Quinoa is a complete protein and a top choice for vegetarians seeking sleep-friendly carbs. In addition to magnesium, quinoa is rich in iron, which supports healthy oxygen flow to the brain and reduces fatigue. A 2023 study in *Advances in Nutrition* found that iron-rich diets can significantly reduce a form of insomnia known as restless leg syndrome.
A Recipe for Restful Nights
Incorporating these foods into your daily meals can pave the way for a relaxing night’s sleep. Whether it’s a sweet potato mash for dinner, a banana-oat smoothie before bed, or a quinoa salad for lunch, these healthy carbs will help you fall asleep better and wake up feeling refreshed.
Supplements for Better Sleep and Good Health
This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II (also containing vitamin D and zinc).
***** Suzanne G. of Tucson, Arizona says: “I am now taking the Sleep Minerals II capsules each night. I have had insomnia for most of my life and the longer I take Sleep Minerals, the better I sleep. The best thing is that I can now get back to sleep if I wake up in the night. It has given me such a sense of peace to know that I now can be well rested during the day. I also find my brain less foggy from lack of sleep. I have tried many products on the market and this is the one that is gold. Thank you so much for producing a quality product!”
Better sleep is something that millions of people with insomnia are looking for.
Per the American Academy of Sleep Medicine survey results, about 1 in 8 people, or 12% of Americans said they have been diagnosed with chronic insomnia.
What if one of the the keys to restful slumber could be related to what you put on your plate? (Continue reading to see the best carbs for better sleep ….)
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This natural health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original and effective calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II (also containing vitamin D and zinc), and Joints and More, a natural supplement with MSM for joint support, less aches and pains, stronger hair and nails, and more energy.
Sleep Minerals II is the original and time-tested calcium and magnesium remedy for better sleep.
Nutrition Breakthroughs has enhanced the product to provide an upgraded formula for those struggling with sleeplessness or insomnia.
With increased amounts of zinc, a shift to sunflower lecithin from soy lecithin, and a reduced serving size, the new formula provides increased benefits for those who seek a more restful night’s sleep.
Check out all the details and benefits here.
Be healthy and sleep well!
Jobee Knight
Nutrition Breakthroughs
Maker of Sleep Minerals II and Joints and More
If you suffer from chronic back pain, you might find getting enough quality sleep a real problem.
While it might seem impossible, there are plenty of ways you can try that have been shown to help those with lower back pain or chronic back pain get the sleep they desperately need.
Let me share with you the tips I give my patients when it comes to sleeping with back pain (Continue reading) ….
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This health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, and more energy.
Cilantro is an herb with small green, fan-shaped leaves and long, tender stalks.
According to Medical News Today, cilantro fights pain and inflammation, enhances skin health and has anti-fungal and anti-cancer properties. Per Dr. Josh Axe, this plant removes heavy metals from the body, cleanses the urinary tract, settles digestive upset, protects against food poisoning and acts as a sedative.
See the details of these health benefits, as well as many ways to use cilantro in dishes here on the Nutrition Breakthroughs blog.
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This natural health news is provided by Nutrition Breakthroughs, a publisher of nutrition articles and supplier of natural remedies since 2002. Nutrition Breakthroughs makes Sleep Minerals II, the effective natural sleep aid with calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D, and also Joints and More, the natural solution for joint relief, arthritis, aches and pains, stronger hair, better nails, and more energy.
Getting a good night’s sleep is a satisfying, energizing, and vital part of a healthy life.
However, per the National Sleep Foundation, almost six out of ten Americans report having insomnia at least a few nights a week.
See the full article on the Nutrition Breakthroughs website which shares some proven and studied natural remedies for falling asleep faster, sleeping longer and enjoying a better night’s sleep.
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This health news is shared by Nutrition Breakthroughs, maker of the original calcium and magnesium based sleep aid Sleep Minerals II, and Joints and More, a natural supplement for joint relief, less aches and pains, and more energy.
News on Natural Remedies, Good Sleep and Good Health 