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During our observations, we noticed a significant increase in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep on the second and third days of VB12 administration. Interestingly, REM sleep also showed a notable boost on the second day. The enhancements in sleep were particularly evident during the light period, indicating that vitamin B12 could play a role in promoting sleep at those times.
Additionally, we found that the rats receiving vitamin B12 exhibited serum levels that were 40 times higher than those in control rats, suggesting a robust absorption and impact of the vitamin. Overall, our findings indicate that administering VB12 peripherally does have positive effects on sleep in rats, especially during the light hours.
Upon administration of high doses of methylcobalamin (3,000 micrograms per day), we observed immediate improvements in their sleep-wake patterns. Notably, the girl's sleep duration reduced from ten hours to seven, while her sleep onset time shifted from 2 a.m. to midnight. The boy’s sleep-wake cycle also improved, with a decrease in the cycle duration from 24.6 hours to 24 hours.
Interestingly, neither patient showed any signs of vitamin B12 deficiency, and their serum B12 levels were in the normal range or higher during treatment. This suggests that high-dose vitamin B12 might play a role in resetting and improving sleep-wake schedules in these adolescents, linking to the circadian rhythms that govern sleep.
While more research is needed, these findings present a promising perspective on how vitamin B12 may help alleviate certain insomnia symptoms in young people.
The girl's sleep improved significantly, reducing her sleep time from 10 hours to 7 hours and enabling her to fall asleep earlier. The boy's sleep-wake cycle also showed a positive shift. Overall, these initial findings suggest that B12 might play a helpful role in addressing certain sleep disorders in young individuals.
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Upon administration of high doses of methylcobalamin (3,000 micrograms per day), we observed immediate improvements in their sleep-wake patterns. Notably, the girl's sleep duration reduced from ten hours to seven, while her sleep onset time shifted from 2 a.m. to midnight. The boy’s sleep-wake cycle also improved, with a decrease in the cycle duration from 24.6 hours to 24 hours.
Interestingly, neither patient showed any signs of vitamin B12 deficiency, and their serum B12 levels were in the normal range or higher during treatment. This suggests that high-dose vitamin B12 might play a role in resetting and improving sleep-wake schedules in these adolescents, linking to the circadian rhythms that govern sleep.
While more research is needed, these findings present a promising perspective on how vitamin B12 may help alleviate certain insomnia symptoms in young people.
The girl's sleep improved significantly, reducing her sleep time from 10 hours to 7 hours and enabling her to fall asleep earlier. The boy's sleep-wake cycle also showed a positive shift. Overall, these initial findings suggest that B12 might play a helpful role in addressing certain sleep disorders in young individuals.
Similarly, a 55-year-old man with delayed sleep phase syndrome also benefitted from B12, experiencing sustained improvement for over six months. These findings suggest Vitamin B12 may be a valuable treatment for certain sleep-wake rhythm disorders.
Upon further examination, we discovered deficiencies not just in vitamin B12, but also in vitamin D3 and folic acid. After addressing these deficiencies through supplementation, the subject reported a return to a 24-hour sleep-wake cycle.
However, it's essential to note that the improvement in sleep patterns remained detached from the external light-dark environment. This raises the intriguing question of whether vitamin B12's influence is direct or if it simply coexists with other factors influencing sleep.
While there were notable changes after treatment, isolating the specific effect of vitamin B12 on insomnia from the other vitamins administered remains a challenge. Thus, we observe that while vitamin B12 is part of the bigger picture, its individual effectiveness in treating insomnia cannot be confirmed from this study alone.
We found that participants receiving the Magnesium-melatonin-vitamin B complex reported a reduction in insomnia symptoms, as indicated by the Athens Insomnia Scale scores. Initially, the average sleep problem scores were quite similar between both groups, showing they were compatible at the start. However, after three months, the treatment group saw their insomnia scores significantly drop, suggesting that the supplement had a beneficial impact.
While the findings point to the treatment's effectiveness, it's essential to note that Vitamin B12 was part of a combination therapy. This means we cannot isolate its specific contribution to the improvement seen. As such, while we can say that the combination helped with insomnia, we need further studies to understand the exact role of Vitamin B12 in this context.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder characterized by the inability to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up too early and not be able to go back to sleep. Individuals experiencing insomnia may find that it affects their daytime functioning, leading to issues such as fatigue, mood disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. Insomnia can be classified into two main types: acute insomnia, which lasts for a short period often triggered by stress or life changes, and chronic insomnia, which occurs at least three times a week for three months or longer, and may require more in-depth evaluation and treatment.
Numerous factors can contribute to insomnia, including stress, anxiety, poor sleep habits, medical conditions, and the use of certain medications. Treatment for insomnia typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), and sometimes medication. Establishing a consistent sleep routine, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and practicing relaxation techniques can help improve sleep quality. If insomnia persists, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and customized treatment options.
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in several vital functions in the human body. It is essential for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Naturally occurring in animal products, the vitamin can be found in high concentrations in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, making it particularly important for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, as plant-based sources of B12 are limited and often require supplementation.
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to serious health issues, including anemia, fatigue, memory problems, and nerve damage. Due to its significance, it's crucial for individuals, particularly those at risk of deficiency, to ensure adequate intake through diet or supplementation. For most adults, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) is around 2.4 micrograms, though pregnant or breastfeeding women may require higher amounts. If you're considering B12 supplements, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best option for your specific needs and health status.
Based on user reviews, results from taking this supplement for insomnia can vary significantly. Some users, like the individual who described feeling like a "new person" after discovering their vitamin B12 deficiency, reported noticeable improvements in sleep quality shortly after starting the supplement. Specifically, this user mentioned feeling it was effective for their insomnia after a relatively short duration (Read Review). Others noted effects within as little as 15 minutes after taking the supplement (Read Review).
Conversely, some users experienced no improvement even after several weeks. For instance, a reviewer remarked that after 25 days of use, they saw no changes regarding their focus or insomnia (Read Review). This highlights a range of responses among users, suggesting that while some may find relief quickly, others may need more time or possibly a different approach to their insomnia. As such, individuals may want to be patient and observe their body's response over a few weeks to determine if the supplement is effective for them.
The scientific research on Vitamin B12's effects on insomnia has shown promising potential, particularly in specific cases. For instance, studies involving adolescents with sleep-wake disorders have demonstrated significant improvements in sleep patterns after high doses of Vitamin B12, such as in a case where a 15-year-old girl experienced a reduction in sleep duration from ten hours to seven, and shifted her sleep onset from 2 a.m. to midnight ([8]). Similarly, another case documented a blind girl with a chaotic sleep-wake cycle who improved after taking Vitamin B12, aligning her rhythm closer to a typical 24-hour cycle, although the benefits ceased after discontinuation ([9]).
However, the relationship between Vitamin B12 and insomnia is complex and not entirely straightforward. Larger studies, including one assessing 512 adults in Greece, indicated that lower levels of Vitamin B12 correlated with increased insomnia symptoms (particularly in elderly and female subjects), but did not find a direct link to overall sleep quality ([3]). Furthermore, while some combined therapies using Magnesium, Melatonin, and Vitamin B12 showed reductions in insomnia symptoms, it remains unclear how much of this effect can be attributed specifically to Vitamin B12 since it was part of a multi-component treatment regimen ([6]). Overall, while there is some evidence supporting the use of Vitamin B12 in treating insomnia in certain populations, further research is essential to clarify its efficacy and the mechanisms at play.
Users have reported a variety of improvements in their insomnia symptoms after taking this vitamin B12 supplement, although individual experiences do vary. Some reviewers, like one new mother, shared that they experienced effective results over time, allowing them to fall asleep faster, return to sleep more easily after waking, and wake up feeling refreshed (Read Review). Others highlighted their newfound ability to regulate their sleep patterns, often feeling drowsy soon after taking the supplement, with noticeable improvements in morning alertness (Read Review).
Several users indicated even more rapid effects, with one noting they felt sleepy within 15 minutes of use, quickly alleviating their insomnia (Read Review). Additionally, many have reported improvements in their overall mood and energy levels alongside better sleep quality, which underscores the multifaceted benefits users are experiencing from this supplement (Read Review). Nevertheless, it’s worth mentioning that not all users found success; some reported no change after extended use (Read Review). Overall, while many users experienced positive results, it's important to keep in mind that responses can vary based on individual health conditions and needs.
Users have had varied experiences when combining this vitamin B12 supplement with other treatments for insomnia. Some reported significant improvements in their sleep quality, particularly when integrating Vitamin B12 with melatonin. One reviewer noted that the addition of methylcobalamin, which supports the nervous system, complemented their melatonin use, further aiding their insomnia issues (Read Review). Another user reported that taking Vitamin B12 helped regulate their sleep patterns, allowing them to feel refreshed in the morning (Read Review).
Conversely, some reviewers expressed that combining this supplement with other sleep aids did not yield the desired results. One user mentioned no improvements after 25 days of use despite higher expectations with the B12 supplement (Read Review). Additionally, a reviewer who previously used another brand successfully found that this particular one worsened their insomnia, indicating the importance of personalization when it comes to supplement choices (Read Review). This suggests that while many users can find beneficial combinations, individual responses to supplements can vary widely, making it essential to tailor approaches to their unique needs.
The research on vitamin B12 (specifically methylcobalamin) suggests that higher doses may be beneficial for treating insomnia, particularly in specific disorders related to sleep-wake rhythms. For instance, studies indicate that a daily dose of 3,000 micrograms (or 3 mg) showed significant improvements in adolescents with sleep disorders, including one case where a girl's sleep duration was reduced from ten hours to seven hours with enhanced sleep onset times [8]. Another investigation involving a 15-year-old blind girl suggested that a regimen of 1.5 mg taken three times daily (totaling 4.5 mg) effectively helped align her sleep-wake cycle with a 24-hour rhythm [9].
However, it is essential to note that the optimal dosage can vary based on individual circumstances and underlying conditions. Various studies indicate that while B12 supplementation might aid certain insomnia symptoms, further research is still required to fully understand its effectiveness and the ideal dosing strategy for different populations. Overall, high-dose vitamin B12 appears promising for certain types of insomnia, but personalized recommendations and medical guidance are necessary to determine the appropriate amount for individuals [4].
Upon administration of high doses of methylcobalamin (3,000 micrograms per day), we observed immediate improvements in their sleep-wake patterns. Notably, the girl's sleep duration reduced from ten hours to seven, while her sleep onset time shifted from 2 a.m. to midnight. The boy’s sleep-wake cycle also improved, with a decrease in the cycle duration from 24.6 hours to 24 hours.
Interestingly, neither patient showed any signs of vitamin B12 deficiency, and their serum B12 levels were in the normal range or higher during treatment. This suggests that high-dose vitamin B12 might play a role in resetting and improving sleep-wake schedules in these adolescents, linking to the circadian rhythms that govern sleep.
While more research is needed, these findings present a promising perspective on how vitamin B12 may help alleviate certain insomnia symptoms in young people.
The first patient, a 15-year-old blind girl, battled a free-running sleep-wake rhythm known as hypernychthemeral syndrome for 13 years. Despite several attempts to synchronize her sleep-wake cycle with the typical 24-hour environment, she struggled to do so. After starting a daily regimen of vitamin B12 (1.5 mg taken three times a day), we observed that her sleep-wake rhythm began to align with the 24-hour cycle and remained stable as long as she continued the treatment. However, her free-running rhythm returned within two months after stopping the vitamin B12.
The second patient, a 55-year-old man, had been dealing with delayed sleep phase syndrome since the age of 18. After taking vitamin B12 at the same dosage, he reported an improvement in his sleep-wake disorder that lasted over six months while he remained on the medication.
Although we noted some positive outcomes from vitamin B12 administration, it's essential to acknowledge that the findings are based on a small sample size, which may limit the broader implications of these results.
Our findings highlighted that lower vitamin B12 levels, particularly below 342 pg/mL, were linked to increased insomnia symptoms. This association was particularly pronounced in certain groups, such as elderly, non-obese, and female participants. Interestingly, we found that excessive daytime sleepiness connected with low B12 levels only affected obese participants.
However, we did not find a significant connection between vitamin B12 levels and poor overall sleep quality. This indicates that while vitamin B12 may play a role in insomnia for specific individuals, its impact on sleep quality itself remains unclear. Therefore, while our study sheds light on these associations, further research is needed to explore the underlying dynamics between sleep and vitamin B12 more fully.
We found that participants receiving the Magnesium-melatonin-vitamin B complex reported a reduction in insomnia symptoms, as indicated by the Athens Insomnia Scale scores. Initially, the average sleep problem scores were quite similar between both groups, showing they were compatible at the start. However, after three months, the treatment group saw their insomnia scores significantly drop, suggesting that the supplement had a beneficial impact.
While the findings point to the treatment's effectiveness, it's essential to note that Vitamin B12 was part of a combination therapy. This means we cannot isolate its specific contribution to the improvement seen. As such, while we can say that the combination helped with insomnia, we need further studies to understand the exact role of Vitamin B12 in this context.
Upon further examination, we discovered deficiencies not just in vitamin B12, but also in vitamin D3 and folic acid. After addressing these deficiencies through supplementation, the subject reported a return to a 24-hour sleep-wake cycle.
However, it's essential to note that the improvement in sleep patterns remained detached from the external light-dark environment. This raises the intriguing question of whether vitamin B12's influence is direct or if it simply coexists with other factors influencing sleep.
While there were notable changes after treatment, isolating the specific effect of vitamin B12 on insomnia from the other vitamins administered remains a challenge. Thus, we observe that while vitamin B12 is part of the bigger picture, its individual effectiveness in treating insomnia cannot be confirmed from this study alone.
References
- Ohta T, Ando K, Iwata T, Ozaki N, Kayukawa Y, et al. Treatment of persistent sleep-wake schedule disorders in adolescents with methylcobalamin (vitamin B12). Sleep. 1991;14:414.
- Okawa M, Mishima K, Nanami T, Shimizu T, Iijima S, et al. Vitamin B12 treatment for sleep-wake rhythm disorders. Sleep. 1990;13:15.
- Bouloukaki I, Lampou M, Raouzaiou KM, Lambraki E, Schiza S, et al. Association of Vitamin B12 Levels with Sleep Quality, Insomnia, and Sleepiness in Adult Primary Healthcare Users in Greece. Healthcare (Basel). 2023;11. doi:10.3390/healthcare11233026
- Radlberger RF, Kunz AB. Vitamin D deficiency promoting non-24 h sleep-wake disorder: a case report. Front Neurol. 2023;14:1141835. doi:10.3389/fneur.2023.1141835
- Xiong S, Liu Z, Yao N, Zhang X, Ge Q. The independent association between vitamin B12 and insomnia in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study. Nutr Diabetes. 2022;12:3. doi:10.1038/s41387-022-00181-8
- Djokic G, Vojvodić P, Korcok D, Agic A, Rankovic A, et al. The Effects of Magnesium - Melatonin - Vit B Complex Supplementation in Treatment of Insomnia. Open Access Maced J Med Sci. 2019;7:3101. doi:10.3889/oamjms.2019.771
- Chang HY, Sei H, Morita Y. Effects of intravenously administered vitamin B12 on sleep in the rat. Physiol Behav. 1995;57:1019.
- Ohta T, Ando K, Iwata T, Ozaki N, Kayukawa Y, et al. Treatment of persistent sleep-wake schedule disorders in adolescents with methylcobalamin (vitamin B12). Sleep. 1991;14:414.
- Okawa M, Mishima K, Nanami T, Shimizu T, Iijima S, et al. Vitamin B12 treatment for sleep-wake rhythm disorders. Sleep. 1990;13:15.
