Insomnia : A bodybuilder's nightmare

Deeznuts · 02-14-2004, 02:46 PM

I train hard, I eat right, but I just can't seem to sleep tight. Everyday the schedule is the same a good small meal every 2 hours or so keeping me down to competition weight, a decent to awesome workout and lots of cardio a week before a meet. But when it's time for bed and to let my body rest i'm lacking. So help me god I can't sleep...I usually operate on 4-6 hrs. of sleep which ISN'T good. Especailly as active as I am. If it weren't for epehdra and caffiene I very much doubt i'd be sitting first in my region right now. Please help guys, what should I do? I need at least 8-10 hrs. a night.

oaktownboy · 02-14-2004, 02:52 PM

have you tried a really hot shower before bed to loosen up the muscles??how about some melatonin?

jadakris31 · 02-14-2004, 02:57 PM

ive heard that overtraining can cause that problem... not saying saying its your problem persay, could try a few days off or changing up your routine or how active you really are.

**Mudge** · 02-14-2004, 03:07 PM

I've had it my whole life! No need to tell me about how badly it sucks

Melatonin has impressed me so far, I ran into it at Walgreens and finally gave it a try. I have been sick and it has really helped me sleep, I have tried 3mg and 6mg (2x dose) as well. You can find it as low as 1mg.

Things that can affect sleep

* Depression (serotonin regulates melatonin production)
* Stresses of life
* Crap you put in your body that interferes (alcohol, etc)

oaktownboy · 02-14-2004, 03:08 PM

true overtraining also causes insomnia

**CowPimp** · 02-14-2004, 03:45 PM

Marijuana always puts me to sleep... I don't know if you're willing to try illegal drugs to help your problem, but that is definitely one area where marijuana excels.

There is also valerian root, which didn't do crap for me. I used to have some sleeping problems, but lifting has actually helped that a lot.

You could also try reducing your intake of ephedra and caffeine...

Premo55 · 02-14-2004, 04:36 PM

It would be nice if I could go back to sleep quickly after taking a tinkle in the middle of the morning...

Peace.

oaktownboy · 02-14-2004, 04:46 PM

Willdebeast · 02-14-2004, 05:04 PM

hmmm just a thought here. EPHIDRINE AND CAFFIENE

JLB001 · 02-14-2004, 05:09 PM

Melatonin

Downtown Guy · 02-14-2004, 09:33 PM

To sum up the two great pieces of advice you've been offered multiple times now:

...trade the epehdra and caffiene in for a bottle of melatonin and I'll bet you'll find yourself competing for the state championship. Good luck!

**Mudge** · 02-14-2004, 09:47 PM

Just drop the EC/ECA a few hours before bedtime, I only used that stuff for workout energy myself.

bandaidwoman · 02-14-2004, 11:36 PM

Sounds like a combination of overtraining and the ephedra and caffeine. Sleep studies in people (both athletes and non) show a direct correlation between how ephedra- like compounds and caffeine use affect sleep, not so much by the amount or quanitity used during the day, but how late in the day it was used. The rule of thumb was, the same amount of caffeine, stimulant used before 11 am did not affect sleep as much as a lesser amount used after 11 am.

**Prince** · 02-14-2004, 11:38 PM

ZMA might be worth a shot, it promotes sleep, I take it every night.

bandaidwoman · 02-14-2004, 11:46 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Prince
ZMA might be worth a shot, it promotes sleep, I take it every night.

It's quarter till two in the am here, (I'm at work)...isn't it close to your bedtime now out west?

or are you having a touch of insomnia now?

**Prince** · 02-14-2004, 11:54 PM

it's almost mid-night here, I am about to retire...the only reason I am up so late is because I slept in today (Saturday), and I will sleep in again tmorrow.

Big Smoothy · 02-15-2004, 02:53 AM

Deeznutz never stated what he thinks *may* be the cause of his inability to sleep. There can be many reasons. Psychological, physical, stress. Maybe even "thinking too much."

Melotonin, some relaxation strategies, reading a book, to tons of things.

Since he is competing, I think going to an Insomnia clinic or a specialist (doctor) who can provide possible info. and strategies would be good.

(And I'm not the type of persone who thinks people should run to the doctor for every little "this and that," either).

Skib · 02-15-2004, 06:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Deeznuts
I just can't seem to sleep tight.

Quote:

Originally posted by Deeznuts
If it weren't for epehdra and caffiene I very much doubt i'd be sitting first in my region right now.

how about if it weren't for ephedra and caffeine you might actually be able to sleep at night?

Deeznuts · 02-15-2004, 07:39 AM

Thanks everyone for replying.

I should have been more specific in my post. I usually do the E/C earlier in the day (before noon) to give me an energy boost for a workout. I normally feel pretty tired after that until I actually go to bed. My mind just travels from one subject to another and I just can't pass out. I've purchased some ZNA as i've heard it enables you to rest better, but I think I might give this Melatonin a shot. What's the best stuff to get?

Thanks again for all the replies!

**Mudge** · 02-15-2004, 08:02 PM

I very rarely like legal supplements, but I have to admit to liking Melatonin very much so far, good stuff. If that opinion changes within a week or so I will post on it, for now though I believe in it.

Flex · 02-15-2004, 08:20 PM

some things that i've heard help you sleep better.......

-don't eat or drink anything leading up to the time b4 you go to bed (even though i eat/drink up to the second i go to bed......no wonder i always gotta wake up and pee)

-relax in the time leading up to bedtime (i notice whenever i workout late at night.........even after a hot shower and some food, i'm reeeeal relaxed from the shower and beat from the w.o., yet when i lay down i can't fall asleep). watch tv, listen to music or whatever........

-def. don't take any CNS stimulants anywhere near bedtime (i took ephedrine one night before a w.o. and i barely slept at all that night)

hope this helps.......

oaktownboy · 02-15-2004, 08:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Flex
some things that i've heard help you sleep better.......

-don't eat or drink anything leading up to the time b4 you go to bed (even though i eat/drink up to the second i go to bed......no wonder i always gotta wake up and pee)

-relax in the time leading up to bedtime (i notice whenever i workout late at night.........even after a hot shower and some food, i'm reeeeal relaxed from the shower and beat from the w.o., yet when i lay down i can't fall asleep). watch tv, listen to music or whatever........

-def. don't take any CNS stimulants anywhere near bedtime (i took ephedrine one night before a w.o. and i barely slept at all that night)

hope this helps.......

haha i bet the kind of music u and me listen to would keep us up, not put us to sleep

myCATpowerlifts · 02-15-2004, 08:56 PM

one time i took some hydroxycut within say 3 hours of sleeping...
Got abo;ut oooohhh 3 hours or less if i remember correctly

oaktownboy · 02-15-2004, 08:58 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Deeznuts
Thanks everyone for replying.

I should have been more specific in my post. I usually do the E/C earlier in the day (before noon) to give me an energy boost for a workout. I normally feel pretty tired after that until I actually go to bed. My mind just travels from one subject to another and I just can't pass out. I've purchased some ZNA as i've heard it enables you to rest better, but I think I might give this Melatonin a shot. What's the best stuff to get?

Thanks again for all the replies!

no specific brand is better than others..but i like twinlab's personally

Flex · 02-15-2004, 09:28 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by oaktownboy
haha i bet the kind of music u and me listen to would keep us up, not put us to sleep

Oops, bad idea.....

don't listen to music in that case haha.

nah, but in all seriousness, i DONT think its a good idea to listen to music........

i fuckin hate when i'm trying to go to bed and i got a song stuck in my head............

KiDNotorious · 02-15-2004, 09:58 PM

i usually drink green tea in the morning, and 2 ephedra pills a day, one about 15 mins before a workout and my workouts are from 7:30-9:10, (10 mins in the sauna)

My sleeping problem isnt the caffine or the pills, im dead tired after my shower, its just school...

Deeznuts · 02-16-2004, 09:55 AM

I started taking ZMA today and i'm going to pick up some melatonin after my workout. I'll post the results!

Flex · 02-16-2004, 10:04 AM

i need a nap EVERY day to feel "right".

whether i wake up and feel groggy or refreshed...it don't matter. as long as i get a nap, psychologically i feel "rested", so i'm good for the rest of the day......

try napping bro

02-14-2004, 02:46 PM	#1
Deeznuts Still Growing Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: Texas Posts: 771 Photos: 2	Insomnia : A bodybuilder's nightmare I train hard, I eat right, but I just can't seem to sleep tight. Everyday the schedule is the same a good small meal every 2 hours or so keeping me down to competition weight, a decent to awesome workout and lots of cardio a week before a meet. But when it's time for bed and to let my body rest i'm lacking. So help me god I can't sleep...I usually operate on 4-6 hrs. of sleep which ISN'T good. Especailly as active as I am. If it weren't for epehdra and caffiene I very much doubt i'd be sitting first in my region right now. Please help guys, what should I do? I need at least 8-10 hrs. a night.
	Desire.Dedication.Deeznuts

02-14-2004, 02:57 PM	#3
jadakris31 jersey's here Join Date: May 2003 Location: nj Posts: 390 Photos: 1	ive heard that overtraining can cause that problem... not saying saying its your problem persay, could try a few days off or changing up your routine or how active you really are.
	somehow trying to get the abs but bulk at the same time.......

02-14-2004, 03:07 PM	#4
Mudge Pizza the Hut Super Moderator Join Date: Jun 2002 Posts: 22,997 Photos: 1	I've had it my whole life! No need to tell me about how badly it sucks Melatonin has impressed me so far, I ran into it at Walgreens and finally gave it a try. I have been sick and it has really helped me sleep, I have tried 3mg and 6mg (2x dose) as well. You can find it as low as 1mg. Things that can affect sleep * Depression (serotonin regulates melatonin production) * Stresses of life * Crap you put in your body that interferes (alcohol, etc)
	Kinesiology Vote @ Top 25 Deads Comp Bench Motivation Bench form MaxCalc Charles Poliquin When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be. Lao-Tzu I don't know any sources so don't ask - thanks

02-14-2004, 03:45 PM	#6
CowPimp Fueled by Testosterone Moderator Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Silver Spring, MD Posts: 15,405	Marijuana always puts me to sleep... I don't know if you're willing to try illegal drugs to help your problem, but that is definitely one area where marijuana excels. There is also valerian root, which didn't do crap for me. I used to have some sleeping problems, but lifting has actually helped that a lot. You could also try reducing your intake of ephedra and caffeine...
	The only time it's bad to feel the burn is when you're peeing... CowPimp Picks Up Heavy Shit MySpace YouTube Videos

02-14-2004, 04:36 PM	#7
Premo55 Mic Murderer Join Date: Jul 2003 Location: Toronto, ON Posts: 1,059	It would be nice if I could go back to sleep quickly after taking a tinkle in the middle of the morning... Peace.
	T DOT O.

02-14-2004, 02:52 PM	#2
oaktownboy Registered User Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: smog and fog Posts: 4,387	have you tried a really hot shower before bed to loosen up the muscles??how about some melatonin?

02-14-2004, 03:08 PM	#5
oaktownboy Registered User Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: smog and fog Posts: 4,387	true overtraining also causes insomnia

02-14-2004, 04:46 PM	#8
oaktownboy Registered User Join Date: Jun 2003 Location: smog and fog Posts: 4,387	^lol

02-14-2004, 05:04 PM	#9
Willdebeast Registered User Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: canada Posts: 125	hmmm just a thought here. EPHIDRINE AND CAFFIENE

02-14-2004, 05:09 PM	#10
JLB001 I see YOU!! Elite Member Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: Houston Posts: 8,293 Photos: 5	Melatonin
	"When you get to the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on."

02-14-2004, 09:33 PM	#11
Downtown Guy Registered User Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: Kentucky Posts: 121	To sum up the two great pieces of advice you've been offered multiple times now: ...trade the epehdra and caffiene in for a bottle of melatonin and I'll bet you'll find yourself competing for the state championship. Good luck!

02-14-2004, 09:47 PM	#12
Mudge Pizza the Hut Super Moderator Join Date: Jun 2002 Posts: 22,997 Photos: 1	Just drop the EC/ECA a few hours before bedtime, I only used that stuff for workout energy myself.

02-14-2004, 11:36 PM	#13
bandaidwoman inadvertant tree hugger Elite Member Join Date: Dec 2003 Location: Atlanta, Georgia Posts: 601 Photos: 4	Sounds like a combination of overtraining and the ephedra and caffeine. Sleep studies in people (both athletes and non) show a direct correlation between how ephedra- like compounds and caffeine use affect sleep, not so much by the amount or quanitity used during the day, but how late in the day it was used. The rule of thumb was, the same amount of caffeine, stimulant used before 11 am did not affect sleep as much as a lesser amount used after 11 am.
	Official Race Member of the Crank Crushing Rednecks Eat more mud, mountain bike until you die! XX Feminine power

02-14-2004, 11:38 PM	#14
Prince the one & only Administrator Join Date: Nov 2000 Location: Colorado Posts: 33,520 Blog Entries: 25 Photos: 313	ZMA might be worth a shot, it promotes sleep, I take it every night.
	SBMuscle.com - Discount Supplement Superstore AlltheWhey.com - Bulk Protein Powders CEM Products - Research Chemicals & Supplements MusclePharm - Complete Nutritional Arsenal BigBackGrips - If you lift weights you've got to try these grips!

02-14-2004, 11:54 PM	#16
Prince the one & only Administrator Join Date: Nov 2000 Location: Colorado Posts: 33,520 Blog Entries: 25 Photos: 313	it's almost mid-night here, I am about to retire...the only reason I am up so late is because I slept in today (Saturday), and I will sleep in again tmorrow.
	SBMuscle.com - Discount Supplement Superstore AlltheWhey.com - Bulk Protein Powders CEM Products - Research Chemicals & Supplements MusclePharm - Complete Nutritional Arsenal BigBackGrips - If you lift weights you've got to try these grips!

02-15-2004, 02:53 AM	#17
Big Smoothy Windy City Elite Member Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: Chicago Posts: 2,698	Deeznutz never stated what he thinks may be the cause of his inability to sleep. There can be many reasons. Psychological, physical, stress. Maybe even "thinking too much." Melotonin, some relaxation strategies, reading a book, to tons of things. Since he is competing, I think going to an Insomnia clinic or a specialist (doctor) who can provide possible info. and strategies would be good. (And I'm not the type of persone who thinks people should run to the doctor for every little "this and that," either).

02-15-2004, 07:39 AM	#19
Deeznuts Still Growing Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: Texas Posts: 771 Photos: 2	Thanks everyone for replying. I should have been more specific in my post. I usually do the E/C earlier in the day (before noon) to give me an energy boost for a workout. I normally feel pretty tired after that until I actually go to bed. My mind just travels from one subject to another and I just can't pass out. I've purchased some ZNA as i've heard it enables you to rest better, but I think I might give this Melatonin a shot. What's the best stuff to get? Thanks again for all the replies!
	Desire.Dedication.Deeznuts

02-15-2004, 08:02 PM	#20
Mudge Pizza the Hut Super Moderator Join Date: Jun 2002 Posts: 22,997 Photos: 1	I very rarely like legal supplements, but I have to admit to liking Melatonin very much so far, good stuff. If that opinion changes within a week or so I will post on it, for now though I believe in it.

02-15-2004, 08:20 PM	#21
Flex FLEXecutioner Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Pomping Iyuhn Posts: 6,278 Photos: 2	some things that i've heard help you sleep better....... -don't eat or drink anything leading up to the time b4 you go to bed (even though i eat/drink up to the second i go to bed......no wonder i always gotta wake up and pee) -relax in the time leading up to bedtime (i notice whenever i workout late at night.........even after a hot shower and some food, i'm reeeeal relaxed from the shower and beat from the w.o., yet when i lay down i can't fall asleep). watch tv, listen to music or whatever........ -def. don't take any CNS stimulants anywhere near bedtime (i took ephedrine one night before a w.o. and i barely slept at all that night) hope this helps.......
	You're a funny guy, Sully, I like you. Dat's why I'm going to kill you lahst. * Got juice?Need Motivation?How to Train* Arnold vs. Ronnie vs. Haney vs. Sergio YEAH BUDDY...LIGHT WEIGHT!Ahhnold*

02-15-2004, 08:56 PM	#23
myCATpowerlifts Registered User Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: The lone star state Posts: 6,262 Photos: 2	one time i took some hydroxycut within say 3 hours of sleeping... Got abo;ut oooohhh 3 hours or less if i remember correctly

02-15-2004, 09:58 PM	#26
KiDNotorious Registered User Join Date: Jan 2004 Location: 313 Michigan Posts: 102 Photos: 1	i usually drink green tea in the morning, and 2 ephedra pills a day, one about 15 mins before a workout and my workouts are from 7:30-9:10, (10 mins in the sauna) My sleeping problem isnt the caffine or the pills, im dead tired after my shower, its just school...
	"Real Eyes........Realize.........Real Lies"

02-16-2004, 09:55 AM	#27
Deeznuts Still Growing Join Date: Nov 2003 Location: Texas Posts: 771 Photos: 2	I started taking ZMA today and i'm going to pick up some melatonin after my workout. I'll post the results!
	Desire.Dedication.Deeznuts

02-16-2004, 10:04 AM	#28
Flex FLEXecutioner Join Date: Sep 2003 Location: Pomping Iyuhn Posts: 6,278 Photos: 2	i need a nap EVERY day to feel "right". whether i wake up and feel groggy or refreshed...it don't matter. as long as i get a nap, psychologically i feel "rested", so i'm good for the rest of the day...... try napping bro