≡ Menu

7 Causes of Insomnia–Part Two (Insomnia Series)

A well-spent day brings happy sleep.

Leonardo Da Vinci

 

So in part one of this three part series I shared problems associated with either too little or too much sleep.  I detailed how poor sleep quality deteriorates all aspect of our health, creativity, and resilency.

Today I plan to share my clinical experience detailing common causes of insomnia I have identified in my daily practice.  This post will give you a sneak peek at part three where we discuss practical and effective treatment strategies.

Common Causes of Insomnia

According to my clinical experience crappy sleep quality stems from the following roughly in order:

Diet

Most of my patients eat themselves into poor sleep.  There are several culprits here including:

  • Coffee, sodas, energy drinks, and alcohol (Caffeine, sugar, alcohol, stimulants)
  • High starch diets (Potatoes, chips, crackers, bread, cereal, fruit juice)
  • Processed Food (Foods laden with food additives, coloring, preservatives)

Clinically, a high carbohydrate meal especially at bedtime, stimulates a surge of insulin to help manage the spiking blood sugar caused by stimulants, sugar, or alcohol.  The insulin spike frequently triggers a quick drop in blood sugar while you sleep.  This often causes insomnia characterized by frequent waking.  This is a classic situation with alcohol consumption where even casual drinkers fall asleep quickly but wake frequently or arise unrefreshed.  Alcohol as a host of other associated issues…SEE HERE  and HERE for more.

Stress

I have covered stress related ailments in multiple ways here, here, and here.  Either address stress or live with the consequences.  Poor sleep quality ranks high among those who ignore stress in life.  The entire last section of my book relates to the role stress/lifestyle affects health.

Prescription Drugs/Medications

Again, much like diet, consuming chemicals/drugs prescription or not leads to insomnia. Illicit drugs aside, amphetamines (Ritalin, Vyvanse, Adderall, Provigil, etc.) all have side effects of insomnia.  Sometimes medications used to treat diabetes and mood disorders can also have similar effects.   Don’t forget nicotine in all tobacco products.  The clinical pearl begins with the understanding that medications nearly always have some unintended consequences.  Sadly they are often needed, but more often than not they are used to treat symptoms triggered by diet, lifestyle, or stress.

Inactivity

Physical inactivity promotes tense, inflexible, weak, unbalanced muscles.  You surely know the saying “If you don’t use it, you lose it.”  Unfit, tense, inactive people tend to have stagnant metabolisms.  They have poor lymph and immune function.  They hurt, feel tense, and seek comfort in junk food, stimulants, and medications hoping to cope with symptoms caused by lack of exertion.  The human body was meant to move 12 miles daily.   Either through neglect, ignorance, or motivational deficiency many ignore the fact that WE must move to maintain health.  Inactivity leads to insomnia and all the associated ailments.

Chronic Pain

Busted backs, morbid obesity, old injuries, inflexibility, muscular imbalance, and peripheral neuropathies represent but a few common causes of chronic pain.  Pain triggers a stress response in the body which raises our state of awareness.  Increased stress raises the hormone called cortisol which directly curbs our ability to sleep soundly.  Suffering chronic pain promotes insomnia.

Psychiatric Disorders

Depression, anxiety, panic disorder, Post-traumatic stress disorder, Bipolar, and schizophrenia represent but a few common psychiatric disorders which have insomnia has a diagnostic criteria.  Two key points about psych disorders.  First, if you suffer sleep problems, please consider a formal consult with a physician to determine the underlying cause.  Simply treating sleep without addressing the primary ailment does not cure insomnia.  Second, poor sleep promotes mood disorders.  (The chicken / egg dichotomy at work)

Physical Ailments

Uncontrolled blood sugar, congestive heart failure, obstructive sleep apnea, hyperthyroidism, etc. are examples of major diseases which undiagnosed or uncontrolled can worsen sleep function.  Listen to your body.  Poor sleep serves as a “Check engine light.” Ignore the light and run the risk of missing a major problem.

 

 

Stay tuned for part 3….insomnia treatments!

 

 

 

{ 6 comments… add one }
  • FrankBag March 6, 2025, 7:57 am

    Центр “Эмпатия” оказывает комплексную помощь в области ментального здоровья.
    Здесь работают опытные психологи и психотерапевты, готовые помочь с любыми трудностями.
    В “Эмпатии” используют эффективные методики терапии и индивидуальный подход.
    Центр поддерживает при стрессах, панических атаках и сложностях.
    Если вы нуждаетесь в комфортное место для проработки психологических проблем, “Эмпатия” — верное решение.
    pettreat.gift-boxs.com

  • Davidwen March 7, 2025, 8:35 am

    В современном мегаполисе доставка еды стала неотъемлемой частью обыденности. Большинство горожан ценят удобство, которое она предоставляет, позволяя не тратить время на походы в магазины. Сегодня доставка еды — это не только способ быстро перекусить, но и важная часть в жизни busy людей. Рынок доставки предлагают разнообразие блюд, что делает этот сервис особенно актуальным для людей, ценящих комфорт и вкус. Без доставки еды сложно представить жизнь в мегаполисе, где каждый день приносит новые задачи и вызовы.
    http://www.flottastellareitaliana.it/forum/viewtopic.php?f=2&t=29138

  • Best security camera software March 14, 2025, 5:51 am

    I recently started using Smart Vision as my primary Video Surveillance Software, and I must say it has exceeded my expectations. The VMS is incredibly user-friendly, and the setup process was seamless. The AI-powered object detection feature is a game-changer, allowing me to easily identify people, pets, and even birds in the footage. The time-lapse recording option is another standout feature that adds great value to my security system. I appreciate how this video surveillance software enhances my CCTV monitoring without requiring a steep learning curve. The fact that it supports both desktop and mobile platforms makes it even more versatile. For anyone looking for a reliable and advanced video surveillance solution, Smart Vision is definitely worth considering.

  • vector-jet.com-Kap March 19, 2025, 8:43 pm

    VectorJet specializes in organizing personal aircraft charters, collective flights, and freight charters.
    They deliver tailored solutions for private jet flights, quick air transfers, helicopter charters, and cargo transport, including priority and emergency aid missions.
    The company provides flexible travel options with personalized jet selections, constant support, and help with unique requests, such as flying with pets or remote destination access.
    Extra services feature plane rental, transactions, and private jet management.
    VectorJet serves as an intermediary between customers and partner airlines, ensuring luxury, seamlessness, and smooth execution.
    Their mission is to bring business jet travel simple, reliable, and fully customized for each client.
    private jet charter

  • Транспортировка грузов в столице — удобное решение для компаний и физических лиц.
    Мы оказываем перевозки в пределах Минска и области, функционируя ежедневно.
    В нашем парке автомобилей технически исправные автомобили разной грузоподъемности, что помогает адаптироваться под любые запросы клиентов.
    Перевозки Минск
    Мы помогаем квартирные переезды, перевозку мебели, строительных материалов, а также небольших грузов.
    Наши сотрудники — это опытные работники, хорошо знающие улицах Минска.
    Мы обеспечиваем оперативную подачу транспорта, бережную погрузку и доставку в указанное место.
    Оформить грузоперевозку вы можете всего в пару кликов или по телефону с консультацией.

  • www.gameathlon.gr-mof March 25, 2025, 3:03 am

    Game Athlon is a leading gaming site offering thrilling gameplay for users of all backgrounds.
    The platform provides a huge collection of slot machines, real-time games, table games, and sportsbook.
    Players can enjoy seamless navigation, high-quality graphics, and user-friendly interfaces on both computer and smartphones.
    http://www.gameathlon.gr
    GameAthlon takes care of security by offering secure payments and transparent game results.
    Promotions and VIP perks are regularly updated, giving members extra chances to win and enjoy the game.
    The support service is ready around the clock, helping with any issues quickly and politely.
    The site is the ideal choice for those looking for an adrenaline rush and big winnings in one reputable space.

Leave a Comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.