Insomnia - Male
What Does It Mean?
- Insomnia in males is a dysfunction characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restorative sleep, leading to daytime fatigue and impaired cognitive function.
- This condition can be linked to stress, hormonal imbalances, neurotransmitter dysfunction, poor sleep hygiene, or underlying medical conditions.
- Functional medicine approaches insomnia by identifying root causes and restoring balance through lifestyle interventions, targeted supplementation, and addressing physiological imbalances.
How Did We Get Here?
Root Causes & Contributing Factors:
- Cortisol Dysregulation: Chronic stress and adrenal dysfunction can lead to elevated nighttime cortisol, preventing deep sleep.
- Hormonal Imbalances: Low testosterone and melatonin levels can contribute to sleep disturbances.
- Neurotransmitter Dysfunction: Imbalances in GABA, serotonin, and dopamine can lead to poor sleep quality.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Low levels of magnesium, B vitamins, and zinc can impair sleep regulation.
- Sleep Hygiene & Environmental Factors: Poor sleep routines, blue light exposure, and irregular schedules impact circadian rhythms.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
- Waking up frequently during the night or early in the morning.
- Daytime fatigue, brain fog, and difficulty concentrating.
- Mood disturbances, irritability, or increased stress levels.
- Increased cravings for sugar and caffeine due to disrupted circadian balance.
Lab Test Findings
The following lab tests help evaluate insomnia and its underlying causes:
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Optimal Range |
| IGF-1 | Altered | 150.00-250.00 ng/mL |
| Magnesium, Serum | Decreased | 2.20-2.50 mg/dL |
| Testosterone, Total (Male) | Decreased | 700.00-1100.00 ng/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Treatment focuses on restoring circadian balance, supporting neurotransmitter function, and optimizing hormonal and nutrient status.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Magnesium | Supports muscle relaxation and nervous system balance | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Cerenity PM | Supports neurotransmitter balance and relaxation | 4 capsules without food, daily |
| Botanicalm | Herbal support for calming and sleep regulation | 2 capsules with or without food, daily |
| Melatonin | Regulates sleep-wake cycles and circadian rhythm | 10 tablets with or without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
- Optimize Sleep Hygiene: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, reduce blue light exposure, and create a dark, cool sleeping environment.
- Reduce Stimulants & Alcohol: Limit caffeine and alcohol intake, especially in the afternoon and evening.
- Support Circadian Rhythms: Get morning sunlight exposure and establish a relaxing bedtime routine.
- Manage Stress: Implement mindfulness, deep breathing, and relaxation techniques to lower cortisol levels.
- Balanced Nutrition: Increase intake of sleep-supporting nutrients such as magnesium, tryptophan-rich foods, and healthy fats.