Sleep is the body’s way of metabolically and psychologically resetting itself. The body’s circadian rhythm is regulated by an internal biological clock with an approximate 24-hour cycle. In order to maintain restorative sleep, it is crucial that the brain has optimal levels of serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the relaxing and sleep-regulating neurotransmitters, as well as the sleep-regulating hormone melatonin.

The synergistic ingredients in PM FORMULA , including 5-HTP, PharmaGABA® and taurine, boost levels of the neurotransmitters and hormones that promote relaxation prior to bedtime and increase the deep, restorative stages of sleep.

5-HTP

The sleep-regulating hormone melatonin requires the essential amino acid L-tryptophan for conversion. A deficiency of L-tryptophan in the diet can lead to low serotonin and melatonin levels, which can contribute to sleep challenges. L-tryptophan is converted into the amino acid intermediate 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), which is then converted directly into serotonin, followed by melatonin conversion.

PharmaGABA®

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is one of the major inhibitory neurotransmitters in the brain. GABA provides a calming effect and plays a direct role in activating the sleep cycle in the evening. Cerenity PM includes a patented, naturally-sourced, non-synthetic form of GABA called PharmaGABA®. In a study utilizing 100 mg of PharmaGABA®, supplemented before bedtime, PharmaGABA® was shown to reduce sleep latency by 20%, while increasing time spent in a deep sleep by 20%.

Phosphatidylserine

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid found in high concentrations in the brain. Phosphatidylserine has been shown to play a role in regulating cortisol excretion. Elevated levels of cortisol throughout the night can contribute to frequent waking. When taken in the evening, PS can help reduce cortisol excretion from the body’s stress response system, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, in order to promote a healthy sleep cycle.

Taurine

Taurine is an amino acid that is found abundantly in the brain and has neuroprotective properties. Taurine promotes inhibitory neurotransmission by activating GABA receptors. Taurine also supports inhibitory neurotransmission by activating glycine receptors in the brain.

Mineral Blend

Calcium and magnesium are two minerals that play a major role in supporting a healthy sleep cycle. Magnesium calms the nervous system and has been shown to play a role in the regulation of the HPA axis. Magnesium promotes relaxation by decreasing the activity of glutamate, the primary excitatory (stimulating) neurotransmitter in the brain. Calcium ions are a critical requirement in the synthesis of melatonin. The combination of 5-HTP and calcium in PM FORMULA  provides a significant and natural boost to melatonin levels, aiding in the conversion and activation of this crucial sleep hormone.