6 Best Supplements for Sleep

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Best Supplements for Sleep

Best Sleep Supplements | Common Questions

Sleep is one of the most important aspects of our lives. It allows our bodies to rest and rejuvenate, and plays a crucial role in our overall health.

Unfortunately, many people struggle with sleep problems.

Poor sleep can lead to a wide variety of health issues, including obesity, heart disease, and diabetes.

In this article, we will discuss the 6 best supplements for sleep and how they can help you get the quality slumber you need!

Below we also talk about important considerations like risks, who should not take supplements, sleep disorders and holistic health.

Please keep in mind supplements are lightly regulated by the FDA. Their stated claims have no guarantee. They aren’t cures or treatments for any diseases.

Food is your best source of nutrition. Please check with your doctor before any supplement program.

We include items that we trust will be useful to our visitors. If you click on one of the links on our site, we may get a commission. More info below.

Finally, you may also want a blood test for overall health to spot any other nutritional deficiencies that could be impacting sleep.

If you want more helpful info on supplements – including risks and general FDA guidelines – please see our “Supplements and Vitamins – Ultimate Beginner’s Guide”.

6 Best Supplements for Sleep

  1. Best OverallNatrol “Melatonin Advanced Sleep”
  2. Best Herbal BlendHollis Nutrition “Sleep Fairy”
  3. Melatonin AlternativeMegaFood “Herbal Sleep”
  4. Most Common Ingredients  – Nature’s Lab “Sleep Support”
  5. Best for StressIntegrative Therapeutics “Stress Support”
  6. Best for Amino AcidsYoutheory “Sleep”

1 – Best for Overall – Natrol

  • Price =$ 8.99 
  • # of Servings = 60
  • Price per Serving = $  0.14
  • Product Reviews = 4.8/5 with 31 reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = 1 dietary capsule per serving easy to digest 
  • Labeled Effect = help in sleeping fast and long sleep relaxing 
  • Food Allergens = safe
  • Pros = 2 layer tablet where 1st layer dissolves quickly, 2nd layer dissolves slowly
  • Cons =

About “Melatonin Advanced Sleep”:

Melatonin helps with your body’s sleep cycles. 

Before you fall asleep your brain produces higher amounts of melatonin. 

This supplement contains a high dose of melatonin with 10 mg per serving.

One unique thing about Melatonin Advanced Sleep is that the tablet has two layers.

The first layer contains 5 mg of Melatonin and dissolves quickly.

The second layer contains another 5 mg of Melatonin but dissolves slowly. 

If you are looking for high quality natural sleep aids, this is a great option to try.

Made by “Natrol”:

About Natrol: Began in 1980 and now located in California. Brand values include quality, people, innovation, customer service, and cost effectiveness. According to ReviewMeta.com, Natrol has a 4.1/5 average adjusted rating from 34,006 verified reviews.

  • Start = 1980
  • Revenue = $65 million
  • Employees = 301
  • Mission = improve human wellness worldwide
  • Third Party Certifications = Natural Products Association
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.1/5 average rating from 34,006 reviews

2 – Best Herbal Blend – Hollis Nutrition  

  • Price = $ 18.95 
  • # of Servings = 30
  • Price per Serving = $  0.63
  • Product Reviews = 4.1/5 with 10,536 reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = 2 veggie capsules per serving
  • Labeled Effect = provide safe and gentle sleep
  • Food Allergens = safe
  • Pros = mostly natural supplement with safe, common neurotransmitters
  • Cons = no other vitamins or minerals

About “Sleep Fairy”:

This mostly natural supplement from Hollis Nutrition is vegan, soy-free, gluten-free, stearate-free and non-GMO. 

The herbal blend contains valerian root, chamomile and magnolia. These ingredients, especially chamomile, are known for their calming effects.

The only artificial ingredients added to the herbal supplement are GABA and 5-HTP. 

These neurotransmitters are found in other products related to mental health as well and are overall very common and considered safe.

If you are looking for natural sleep aids to improve your sleep wake cycle, this is another good option to consider!

About Hollis Nutrition: We couldn’t find much information about Hollis Nutrition. However, according to ReviewMeta.com, Hollis Nutrition has a 4.4/5 average adjusted rating from 109 reviews.

3 – Best Melatonin Alternative – MegaFood

  • Price = $ 18.42 
  • # of Servings = 30
  • Price per Serving = $ 0.61
  • Product Reviews = 4.5/5 with 12 reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = 1 capsule before bed, can be taken on empty stomach
  • Labeled Effect = promote restful and restorative sleep
  • Food Allergens = safe
  • Pros = contains time tested ingredients like Ashwagandha and 100% natural
  • Cons = no other vitamins or minerals, recommended take one week for results

About “Herbal Sleep”:

Just like its name suggests, Herbal Sleep is a 100% natural supplement for better sleep.

This supplement contains Sensoril Ashwagandha, with some scientific benefits related to stress reduction. However, this ingredient has only been studied in limited capacity.

Most notably this product doesn’t contain Melatonin and instead is marketed as a natural alternative to Melatonin.

As melatonin supplements are the most common natural sleep aids, it’s likely you may have tried melatonin before.

Some people however may not see benefits in restful sleep with melatonin. You may want to try another natural sleep remedy like this one!

Made by “MegaFood”:

About MegaFood: MegaFood started in 1973 and is a verified B-Corporation, which means they meet higher standards for quality, transparency and sustainability. MegaFood provides tons of science, gives back to the community, and is transparent about their supply chain. According to MetaCritic, MegaFood has a 4.3/5 average rating based on 7,100 reviews.

  • Start = 1973
  • Revenue = $67 million
  • Employees = 200
  • Mission = working toward a world where everyone is truly nourished
  • Third Party Certifications = B Certification, USDA Organic Certification, Non-GMO Project Verified, Vegan, Certified Kosher, 125+ Pesticide Free, Certified Gluten-Free
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.3/5 with 7,100 reviews

4 – Most Common Ingredients  – Nature’s Lab

  • Price = $ 19.99 
  • # of Servings = 120
  • Price per Serving = $ 0.16
  • Product Reviews = 4.9/5 with 669 reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = 1 veggie capsule per serving, capsule easy to swallow 
  • Labeled Effect = helps in relaxing sleep and rest full 
  • Food Allergens = safe 
  • Pros = contains three common ingredients L-Theanine, 5-HTP, and Melatonin
  • Cons = no herbs, vitamins or minerals

About “Sleep Support”:

Melatonin is perhaps the most widely recognized sleep aid involved in sleep.

With 3 mg of Melatonin per serving, Sleep Support gives you plenty!

Please note that with 5-HTP and L-Theanine, these neurotransmitters are used in other supplements related to focus, brain and mental health.

Therefore it’s best to see these neurotransmitters as more for general brain health, which includes sleep, but not specific to sleep.

Made by “Nature’s Lab”:

About Nature’s Lab: Started in 2011 in Las Vegas by Wayne Gorsek, founder of Vitacost in 1994. According to Reviews.io, the company has a 4.9/5 rating with 656 reviews.

  • Start = 2011
  • Revenue = less than $5 million
  • Employees = less than 25
  • Mission = provide the right nutrients, in the right forms, and at the optimal potency levels to produce the best supplements on the market
  • Third Party Certifications = FDA, GMP, Non-GMO, USDA Organic, How 2 Recycle, Made in USA, Kosher, Halal, Cruelty Free
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.9/5 rating from 656 reviews   

5 – Best for Stress – Integrative Therapeutics

  • Price = $ 68.50
  • # of Servings = 90
  • Price per Serving = $ 0.71
  • Product Reviews = 4.5/5 with 230 reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = 1 gluten free tablet per serving
  • Labeled Effect = stress reducing and good for sleep cycle
  • Food Allergens = safe
  • Pros = 100% natural supplement with herbal blend
  • Cons =  marketed for cortisol 

About “Cortisol Manager”:

Cortisol Manager is a 100% natural supplement. 

Like other supplements on this list, Cortisol Manager has Magnolia Bark, which is known to help with calming.

This supplement also contains Ashwagandha. Ashwagandha is used in a variety of other supplements for other issues like inflammation, mood and much more.

However this supplement has no other vitamins, minerals or herbs.

It may be slightly off-putting to some readers that the language is for stress and cortisol. 

Nonetheless, stress and sleep are definitely intertwined, so if you can decrease stress then better sleep should result!

Made by “Integrative Therapeutics”:

About Integrative Therapeutics: Began in Wisconsin in 2000. Values science, and provides good product descriptions. According to ReviewMeta.com, average adjusted rating is 4.3/5 from 5,303 verified reviews.

  • Start = 2000
  • Revenue = $86 million
  • Employees = 300
  • Mission = support you with every step of your health journey
  • Third Party Certifications = GMP, NSF, Emerson Quality Program
  • Third Party Reviews = average adjusted rating is 4.3/5 from 5,303 verified reviews

6 – Best for Amino Acids – Youtheory

  • Price =$ 17.59
  • # of Servings = 21
  • Price per Serving = $ 0.83
  • Product Reviews = 4.3/5 with 94 reviews
  • Taste / Absorption = 1 packet of lime night time powder   
  • Labeled Effect = promotes rapid onset of sleep, improves sleep quality 
  • Food Allergens = safe
  • Pros = lots of amino acids
  • Cons = no vitamins, minerals or herbs

About “Sleep”:

Are you looking for a sleep supplement that contains amino acids?

Amino acids are the body’s building blocks and oftentimes you hear about them in terms of athletes and muscle recovery.

However, amino acids are commonly found in supplements for brain health as well.

This Sleep supplement offers a blend of amino acids to improve sleep quality.

Made by “Youtheory”:

About Youtheory: Began in 2010 and now in Irvine, California. Emphasis on collagen supplements. Brand values include people, principles, passion and process. According to ReviewMeta.com, Youtheory gets a 4.2/5 average adjusted rating from 1,885 verified reviews. 

  • Start = 2010
  • Revenue = $30 million
  • Employees = 161
  • Mission = inspire wellness in all
  • Third Party Certifications = GMP
  • Third Party Reviews = 4.2/5 average rating from 1,885 reviews

What factors do we use to rank supplements?

1 – Price: What’s the price of the supplement? What’s the cost per serving?

  • At Eating Enlightenment we value quality over price. However, all else being equal, then price comes into consideration. 

2 – Reviews: How many reviews for each product? What’s the average rating? How many third party reviews?

  • We strongly believe in third party reviews. Many supplement companies list positive reviews on their website, but third party reviews include negative comments. We always go with third party reviews.

3 – Reputation: How reputable is the brand behind the supplement? How long has the brand been around? What’s their mission? 

  • We believe that a company’s intention is highly important and should be one of your top purchasing decision factors.

4 – Taste / Absorption = What’s the taste? How quickly does your body absorb the supplement? Do reviews mention any negative side effects like an upset stomach?

5 – Perceived Therapeutic Effect = What beneficial effects or feelings does this supplement promote?

6 – Food Allergens = Does the company provide allergen info?

7 – Science / Certifications: Does the company list transparent scientific studies on their website? Do third party certifications test the company’s supplement for quality control? How many certifications does the company have?

8 – Pros/Cons: What are the pros and cons of each supplement? How is the supplement unique? For what situations is this supplement best?

Who benefits most from supplements for sleep?

There are many different factors that can contribute to poor sleep. Stress, anxiety, and depression are some of the most common.

Other causes can include pain, medications, and underlying medical conditions.

If you are struggling with sleep, a sleep aid supplement may be able to help! Here are some general guidelines for who may benefit most from taking a sleep aid supplement:

  • People who have difficulty falling asleep
  • People who wake up frequently during the night
  • Elderly people
  • People who have trouble staying asleep
  • People with jet lag or shift work schedules
  • Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding

When should I take sleep supplements?

Most sleep aid supplements should be taken 30-60 minutes before bedtime. This will give them time to start working and help you drift off to sleep.

If you have trouble getting a good night’s sleep, taking a sleep aid supplement earlier in the evening may be helpful. You may also want to learn more about supplements for stress because stress can negatively impact sleep.

Start with the lowest possible dose and increase gradually as needed.

Risks from supplements

As with any sleep aids, there are potential risks involved. The most common side effects include upset stomach, headache, and dizziness.

If you experience any of these side effects when taking sleep aids, please stop taking the supplement and speak to your doctor.

Some supplements may also interact with medications or underlying medical conditions. Therefore, it is important to speak to your doctor before starting any supplement regimen.

What type of sleep supplement is best?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The best type of sleep supplement for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Some people may prefer a natural supplement, while others may find that a synthetic supplement works better for them.

It is often best to start with a lower dose and increase.

How can I get more sleep quickly?

There are many things you can do to improve your sleep habits. Here are a few tips:

  • Establish a regular sleep schedule
  • Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed
  • Create a relaxing bedtime routine
  • Keep a cool, comfortable environment in your bedroom
  • Limit screen time before bed

Following these tips can help you get the best night’s sleep possible!

If you’re still struggling to get enough shut-eye, supplements may be able to help. Just be sure to speak with your doctor first to ensure they’re right for you.

Sweet dreams!

How soon after taking sleep supplements will I feel better?

This will vary from person to person. Some people may feel the effects of a sleep supplement within an hour, while others may not feel them for several days.

If you don’t notice any improvement after a week or two, it’s best to stop taking the supplement and speak to your doctor.

Supplements are not intended for long-term use.

What if I can’t sleep even with supplements?

If you’re still having trouble sleeping despite taking supplements, there are a few other things you can try.

Establishing a regular sleep schedule, avoiding caffeine and alcohol before bed, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and keeping a cool, comfortable environment in your bedroom can all help improve your sleep habits.

You can also try limiting your screen time before bed. If you’re still struggling to get enough shut-eye, it’s best to speak to your doctor.

They can help you identify any underlying medical conditions that may be causing your insomnia and recommend other treatments.

Sleeping pills are not a long-term solution for insomnia and can have serious side effects. If you’re taking sleep supplements and still not getting relief, it’s best to speak to your doctor.

They can help you find the cause of your insomnia and recommend other treatment options.

Supplements should only be used for short-term relief from occasional sleeplessness.

If you’re experiencing chronic insomnia, it’s best to speak to your doctor so they can help you find a long-term solution.

Conclusion

There are many things you can do to improve your sleep habits. Supplements can be a helpful way to get relief from occasional sleeplessness.

However, they should only be used for short-term relief and not as a long-term solution.

If you’re still struggling to get enough shut-eye, it’s best to speak to your doctor so they can help you find the cause of your insomnia and recommend other treatment options.

Do you have trouble sleeping? Have you tried using supplements? What has been your experience? Let us know in the comments!

About the Author

Jared Levenson is a former binge eating wrestler turned Zen Buddhist Monk, Internal Family Systems counselor and nutrition wellness coach. He's helped hundreds of people through universal meal principles and internal family systems to make peace with food, stop binge eating, and find true health and wholeness.

@jared_levenson

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