Adult Sleep By SmartyPants Functional Overview & Drug Interactions

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in several bodily processes. It helps the body absorb calcium and phosphorus, which are necessary for healthy bones and teeth. It is also important for immune system function and may help to protect against certain diseases. Vitamin D is found in a variety of foods, including fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods such as milk and cereal. It is also produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Vitamin D supplements are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and liquids. The recommended daily intake of vitamin D varies depending on age, sex, and other factors, and it is important to follow the dosage recommendations provided by a healthcare professional. There are several different forms of vitamin D available, with the two most popular being ergocalciferol (vitamin D2) and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3).

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin crucial for several bodily functions. It plays a pivotal role in the formation of red blood cells, aiding in the prevention of anemia. Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining a healthy nervous system and proper brain function, as it is involved in the synthesis of myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. This vitamin is primarily found in animal-based foods such as meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs, making it important for vegetarians and vegans to consider supplementation. A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to neurological issues, fatigue, and cognitive impairment.

Zinc is a mineral that is essential for the proper functioning of the human body. It is involved in many important physiological processes, including immune system function, wound healing, taste, and smell. Zinc is found in a variety of foods, including meat, seafood, and whole grains, and it is also available as a dietary supplement. Zinc supplements may be used to treat or prevent zinc deficiency, which can occur due to certain medical conditions, such as gastrointestinal disorders, alcohol abuse, and certain medications. Zinc supplements may also be used for other purposes, such as to boost the immune system, improve acne, and reduce the severity and duration of colds. There are several different forms of zinc supplements available, including zinc gluconate, zinc acetate, and zinc sulfate. The most common form of zinc supplements is zinc gluconate, which is well absorbed and is less likely to cause stomach-related side effects than other forms of zinc.

Theanine, often referred to as L-theanine as that is the predominant isomer of theanine, is an amino acid commonly found in tea leaves, particularly in green tea. It is purported to increase levels of GABA, serotonin, and dopamine in the brain, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. L-theanine may also promote a sense of calm and improve overall well-being. Some studies have also suggested that it may improve cognitive function, although more research is needed. Most reported drug interactions with theanine are due to its sedative effects.

Melatonin is a hormone that is produced naturally in the pineal gland. It is involved in several different bodily processes, such as the regulation of the body's sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is available as a dietary supplement and is often used to help people with sleep disorders, such as insomnia, fall asleep more easily. There is some evidence to suggest that melatonin supplements may be helpful in reducing the time it takes to fall asleep and improving sleep quality, although the results of studies on this topic have been mixed. Studies show better support for some specific conditions, such as Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) and Non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder. Melatonin is generally considered to be safe when used in the short term, although it can cause side effects in some people, such as dizziness, headache, and nausea. While melatonin is a natural hormone, it is often synthesized for its use in dietary supplements.

Bacillus coagulans, also known as Weizmannia coagulans or Lactobacillus sporogenes, is a spore-forming, lactic acid-producing, Gram-positive bacterium used as a probiotic. Bacillus coagulans has shown benefits for constipation and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Its spores are stable in stomach acid and reach the small intestine, where they germinate and multiply, with around 85% reaching their destination. The bacterium is excreted via feces, with spores detectable up to 7 days post-administration. Mechanistically, Bacillus coagulans exhibits antibacterial effects through the production of coagulin, lactic acid, and lactosporin, reducing pathogenic bacteria colonization. It also demonstrates antifungal properties and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing the growth of pathogenic bacteria and decreasing the production of lipopolysaccharides. Bacillus coagulans may stimulate immune response, as evidenced by increased CD4+ T cells in adults with HIV-1 infection and modulation of inflammatory cytokines in schoolchildren. These properties categorize Bacillus coagulans as an immunomodulator, immunostimulant, and probiotic, with potential therapeutic applications in promoting digestive health and immune function.