Sleep and infants

Would nutrient deficiency affect my babies sleep?

A baby can be restless for a number of reasons such as emotional distress, stomach or digestive complaints, food intolerances or disrupted sleep cycles. Addressing these factors will help to ensure a more settled baby and a happier family life.

Please make an appointment with a Healthcare practitioner regarding infantile sleep problems. If you are currently breastfeeding a Naturopath may recommend some herbs which you can take that will be passed through your breastmilk to promote a better sleep routine for your baby.

Nutrients to improve sleep

Magnesium – this mineral encourages the nervous system to relax and promotes the synthesis of sleep hormones
Calcium deficiency – this mineral is required by the nervous system
Melatonin – a hormone needed by the pineal gland to produce sleep hormones and program the pattern of sleep.
Iron - sleeping problems may be exacerbated by an Iron mineral deficiency

Breastfeeding nutrients and infant sleeping

The following are some other recommendations which you can do if you are currently breastfeeing:

Reduce any stimulants from your diet particularly caffeine (tea or coffee and chocolate). Remember that energy drinks are also full of caffeine too which can make an infant overstimulated and unable to settle.
Reduce sugar intake
Try to avoid drinking any stimulants after 4pm as these may keep the nervous system fired up and many stimulants are able to pass through the breastmilk

Lifestyle factors for infant sleeping

Manage stress and try to keep calm. A baby can feed off the energy of their mother so the calmer you stay the more relaxed your baby is

Natural remedies to improve an infants sleep