What Does It Mean?
- Insomnia in females is characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restorative sleep, leading to daytime fatigue and cognitive dysfunction.
- This condition can be associated with hormonal fluctuations, stress, neurotransmitter imbalances, poor sleep hygiene, or underlying medical conditions.
- Functional medicine aims to address the root causes of insomnia and restore sleep quality through lifestyle interventions, targeted supplementation, and addressing physiological imbalances.
How Did We Get Here?
Root Causes & Contributing Factors:
- Hormonal Fluctuations: Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels, especially during menopause, perimenopause, or the menstrual cycle, can disrupt sleep patterns.
- Cortisol Dysregulation: Chronic stress and adrenal dysfunction may lead to high nighttime cortisol, preventing deep sleep.
- Neurotransmitter Imbalances: Low levels of serotonin, GABA, and melatonin can contribute to sleep difficulties.
- Nutrient Deficiencies: Low levels of magnesium, B vitamins, and zinc may impair sleep regulation.
- Sleep Hygiene & Environmental Factors: Poor sleep routines, blue light exposure, and irregular schedules can negatively affect circadian rhythms.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep.
- Waking up frequently throughout the night or early in the morning.
- Daytime fatigue, brain fog, and difficulty focusing.
- Increased irritability, mood swings, and stress sensitivity.
- Increased cravings for sugar and caffeine due to disrupted sleep patterns.
Lab Test Findings
The following lab tests help assess insomnia and its underlying causes:
| Lab Test Name | Expected Changes | Reference Range |
| IGF-1 | Altered | 150.00-250.00 ng/mL |
| Magnesium, Serum | Decreased | 2.20-2.50 mg/dL |
| Progesterone (Female) | Decreased | 700.00-1100.00 ng/dL |
How Do We Treat It?
Treatment focuses on balancing hormones, supporting neurotransmitter function, and improving circadian regulation.
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:
- Regulate Sleep Hygiene: Maintain a consistent sleep schedule, reduce blue light exposure, and create a cool, dark sleep environment.
- Limit Stimulants & Alcohol: Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake, especially in the evening.
- Support Circadian Rhythms: Prioritize morning sunlight exposure and establish a relaxing bedtime routine.
- Manage Stress & Anxiety: Incorporate relaxation techniques such as meditation, breathwork, and mindfulness to lower cortisol levels.
- Optimize Nutrition: Increase intake of sleep-supporting nutrients, such as magnesium-rich foods, omega-3 fatty acids, and tryptophan-containing proteins.