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.