Our body does not store vitamin C, so we need at least 2,000 milligrams daily to maintain good health. A study published in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine found that vitamin C can reduce damage caused by sleep apnea. High-content foods include bell peppers, dark leafy greens, kiwi fruit, broccoli, berries, citrus fruits, tomatoes, peas and papayas.


4


Magnesium, the Master Mineral From 70 to 80 percent of mankind is deficient in magnesium, which has been connected with prevention of degenerative diseases and mental health and is often the missing mineral in an individual’s wellness equation, accord- ing to Enviromedica’s Ancient Minerals. It also regulates muscle function, including those in the upper throat involved with apnea. Organic foods and farmers’ market offerings may have higher levels of magnesium, especially those packed with green chlorophyll. Liquid chlorophyll is available in most health stores. Start by drinking one glass (250 milliliters) per day for a week, and then take two tablespoons daily. Spinach, chard, pumpkin seeds, yogurt, kefir, almonds, black beans, avocados, figs, bananas and dark chocolate (avoid brands with white sugar) are good sources.


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Helpful Natural Medicines Just before bedtime, consume one teaspoon of olive oil (or organic honey) combined with three drops of lavender essential oil.


Supplement with serotonin precursor 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan), which complements magnesium.


One of the best pure sources of omega-3—a top remedy for sleep apnea by protecting cells from stress—is krill oil (Alternative Medicine Review). Sleep apnea causes long-term oxida- tive stress and puts severe demands on the body, which is thought to deplete omega-3 levels.


Lloyd Jenkins is a certified naturopath native to Canada and owner of the Budwig Cancer Clinic, in Malaga, Spain. He’s the author of seven books and many articles on treating common diseases using natural therapies.


natural awakenings August 2017 21


The Proper Pillow by Randy Kambic T


he right natural pillow is a key component to restful sleep. In fact,


pillow comfort and support are as criti- cal to good sleep as the proper mattress. According to the National Sleep Foun- dation (NSF) (SleepFoundation.org), 91 percent of Americans say that a good pillow is key to their sleep quality. Investing in a high-quality, supportive pillow can be transformative, both per- sonally and professionally. The RAND Corporation calculates that poor sleep among U.S. workers annually costs the U.S. economy some $411 billion. Replace old, worn-out pillows.


Pillows can harbor dust mites and their excrement, dead skin cells and bacteria that can exacerbate allergy symptoms. If a pillow is clumping, losing support or yellowing, replace it, says Michelle Fishberg, co-founder of sleep wellness company Slumbr (Slumbr.com). “Quality, properly sourced, down and feather pillows can be comfortable for those that like classic, soft pillows. Buckwheat and natural latex pillows each have unique qualities promoting better sleep. Buckwheat is therapeutic for back pain, all-natural and hypoaller- genic, and reduces snoring for some,” advises Fishberg.


Pillow care. The NSF suggests


using pillow as well as mattress protec- tors; PureCare mattress (PureCare.com) is their official source including a range of down pillows and its MiteTight pro- tector. Organic cotton covers are kind to people and the planet. Slumbr.com likewise advises using


a protective cover to extend pillow life. Don’t dry clean pillows, because chemi- cals and heat can do damage. A down pillow can be washed, but it’s best to have it professionally cleaned by a down specialist every three to four years. Or wash them at home no more than twice a year on the delicate cycle, alone in a large or commercial washing machine, to avoid breaking down the down’s natural oils and structure. Latex pillows can be occasionally hand-washed with mild detergent and air-dried flat. Don’t wash buckwheat pillows—if the hulls get wet, pour them into a fine mesh bag and air-dry them in the sun.


baranq/Shutterstock.com


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