Yes, if you asked me for ONE supplement to help you recover, I'd probably tell you to take a supplement that promotes restful sleep, whether it's magnesium, melatonin, theanine, ashwagandha, etc. Sleep is the secret weapon of recovery!
Sleep is the secret weapon of recovery!
I'd like to take a moment to introduce two important processes that take place when you sleep 😴
Growth hormone proliferation
When we sleep, our bodies release growth hormones, which are essential for the repair and growth of muscle tissue. These hormones promote recovery after training and help maintain a healthy metabolism.
Fat oxidation
Quality sleep is very important for regulating the hormones that control fat metabolism. Good rest enables your body to better manage fat storage and even promotes its use as an energy source during the day.
Insulin regulation
During sleep, our bodies improve insulin sensitivity, which is important for proper management of blood sugar levels. A good night's sleep helps prevent blood sugar imbalances and reduces the risk of developing metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes.
Anti-aging effects
Sleep also has anti-aging effects, promoting cellular repair and regenerating tissues. A good night's sleep helps reduce signs of fatigue (of course!), makes skin more radiant and even improves cognitive health.
Indeed, during sleep, the brain consolidates memories, which improves recall and learning. In addition, sleep helps to eliminate toxins accumulated in the brain, reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. Last but not least, sufficient, good-quality sleep improves concentration, decision-making and creativity, promoting better overall cognitive performance! So, by getting enough sleep, you can not only recover more effectively, but also have a better glowbut also slow down the aging process in the brain.
Here are a few supplements that promote restful sleep
Magnesium:
Promotes muscular and nervous relaxation, ideal for calming the body before bedtime. Useful for people prone to muscle cramps or stress, but to be honest, it's pretty good for everyone!
Melatonin:
Natural sleep hormone, helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle and improve sleep quality. Recommended for those who have difficulty falling asleep or maintaining deep sleep. Not for long-term use: discuss with a health professional!
Theanine:
Found in green tea, promotes relaxation without drowsiness. Perfect for those who want to calm the mind before bedtime without compromising mental alertness.
Ashwagandha:
An Indian adaptogenic herb, it reduces stress and anxiety, promoting an environment conducive to restful sleep. Ideal for those with stressful lifestyles or who find it difficult to relax before sleep. It's important to cycle Ashwagandha. I invite you to consult my article on the subject
By incorporating one or more of these supplements into your recovery routine, you can maximize the benefits of sleep on your health, physical recovery and mental well-being!
Félix Daigle, Shop Santé Ambassador