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I FINALLY DID IT! Sleeping through the night, every night! If you’ve suffered from insomnia you know that you feel fearful when you go to sleep at night, fearful that you’ll wake up at 3 in the morning, then lay there for 3 hours before finally catching another 30 minutes of sleep, or just deciding to get up for the day. UGH, no fun.
You have to grab naps or caffeine to get through life. Your face sags with fatigue. Your brain doesn’t work as well. Your body doesn’t heal as well. You have bursts of irrational grumpiness.
Our poor bodies! It’s no wonder: we need sleep! Yet despite this need, insomnia affects 1/3 of all Americans, being the most complained about condition! And yet, most doctors don’t offer helpful solutions. Many Americans take prescription or over-the-counter sleep aids that have side effects.
For some the cause is partly due to all the trashy foods we are loath to give up and our overuse of antibiotics, (thus compromised digestive tracts), the crazy busy lives we lead, and our late night love of media.
Insomnia starts for many with the onset of other autoimmune related issues. It is more common with women, who deal with hormone variations more often than men do.
THE SOLUTION
It’s taken me over ten years (having babies can bring on insomnia) to find a solution and I’m SO thankful to have arrived.
And the coolest bonus? After sleeping well initially, with both aids that I’ll explain below, I took myself off of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that shouldn’t be used long term. And although it doesn’t work well for everyone, it was helpful to me and had become a necessity. But no more!
Here’s how I do it and I hope it will work for you too.
It’s a two-part (or three part) deal: animal sourced adrenal extract pills and sleeping on a grounding sheet.
Read more about the grounding sheet and “earthing” in general here and here.
Regarding animal sourced adrenals, they are based in ancient wisdom: take from the animal what we are lacking in ourselves. Ancient healers did this with tissue extracts.
When our adrenals are extremely fatigued, herbs are not enough. Herbs alone are powerful and dramatic in certain healing scenarios, but not, in my experience, when this condition has reached its height. (The wrong herbs, however, can be harmful to our adrenals.) Adrenal supporting herbs help to balance and support systems. But if all of our systems and glands, (digestive, hormonal, thyroid, adrenal), are out of whack we need more than gentle balancing and support. We need an infusion, a shot of the actual adrenal gland itself.
Adrenal supplementation should not be ongoing. But it can be prescribed intermittently for recurring adrenal fatigue that is not easily resolved. The goal is to assist and bolster, not take over the hormonal controls of the body.*
Drlam.com says,
These extracts are used to replenish and eventually normalize adrenal function. An advantage over cortisol hormone replacement is that adrenal cortical extracts can be discontinued once they have done their job of repairing adrenal function.
I was put on bovine adrenal extract after having my first baby, when my cortisol (a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands) levels began spiking at 3 am. The pills worked immediately and with full success. My naturopath at the time had me take the adrenals for two months and then stop. I continued to sleep great. The supplementation jump-started my body back into functioning properly.

But over the years, with more babies and decreasing general health, my adrenals were constantly over-taxed and the extract, which I had reintroduced, wasn’t enough. It helped but it wasn’t helping every night. I began taking melatonin as well, dead set against over-the-counter pills, but knowing I needed to sleep to decrease inflammation and for general healing to happen.
About this time I acquired a beef allergy, due to my leaky gut and eating beef so often during my third pregnancy. 99 out of 100 adrenal supplements are bovine-sourced! UGH.
I finally found a porcine-based adrenal, well sourced and extremely effective.
My sleep improved considerably but I still suffered during certain weeks of my cycle, way too much wakefulness!
And then I learned about grounding, bought the half sheet I’d read about, and experienced first hand how effective this method is for rebooting the body for rest! I have not had one night of insomnia since I bought the sheet, using the two solutions in conjunction with one another! I have had the sheet for one month so I have yet to see how the program works for me in the long run. (*Update, it is now about 10 months after this post was originally written and I am sleeping better than ever. I not only sleep through the middle of the night, I now can sleep in a bit, until 6 or 6:30 am! I am getting 8 hours of sleep at night! This is huge for me. My body used to wake up at 4:30 am most mornings.)
I did have one night of compromised sleep when I reordered my pills too late and went one day without them! It is my conclusion that both pieces are needed to complete the whole sleep puzzle.
Holisticprimarycare.net reports,
A pilot study, published in 2004, focused on cortisol and sleep disturbances in 12 people suffering from stress, pain, and sleep problems. The subjects slept on a conductive mattress grounded to Earth every night for an 8-week period. Compared with baseline measurements, their average cortisol levels improved significantly, with circadian patterns showing a clear trend toward normalization…On average, the patients showed a 54% reduction in midnight cortisol levels, and a 34% increase in 8 AM levels... Subjectively, they reported better sleep and less pain and stress.
What would this study have looked like if the participants also supplemented with adrenal extract? Well, I’m living testimony! The combination of adrenals and grounding has shown a huge reduction in my cortisol spikes, maybe 85-90%? I occasionally wake up and go back to sleep, but not most nights. (I’m not all hooked up to be officially tested; but this is my impression, a rough guess.)
Now, for the sourcing of adrenals!
Here are the brands that I have used, recommended by the naturopathic doctors I’ve seen. They have all “worked” for me. I have also listed the porcine-based adrenal I take, for those of you who have beef allergies.
Thorne Cortrex Adrenal (This contains bovine adrenal extract as well as nutrients that support the function of the adrenal glands and cortisol production.)
Dr. Wilson’s Porcine-based Adrenal Rebuilder (This product actually contains multiple glands. I take the maximum dosage. This is not an affiliate link. It is expensive but well worth it, in my opinion, if you are allergic to beef.)
Have you taken animal-sourced adrenals?
Have they helped you?
What about a grounding sheet?
Just think, you can beat insomnia! It’s possible. If this tired body found success, I believe you can too.
Two helpful disclaimers holisticprimarycare.net adds regarding grounding include the following:
During lightning storms, Earthing appliances should be disconnected from power outlets or dedicated ground rods, just as one would want to disconnect all electrical appliances. When lightning strikes close to one’s home, admittedly a rare phenomenon, all appliances can receive a high power surge.
Clinicians should carefully monitor individuals who take medication to thin blood, regulate blood sugar, control blood pressure, or regulate hormone levels, since the regular practice of Earthing may affect all of these—for the better.
WHAT ABOUT MAINTENANCE, AFTER THE ADRENALS ARE WEANED?
When a patient no longer needs to supplement with animal adrenal extract, there are a few approaches to supporting not only the thyroid and adrenals, but also the pituitary and hypothalamus glands, the glands that help to monitor the thyroid. These vitamins and adaptogens can be used long term, and also help to regulate stress levels. Here are a few that I have experience with, that I recommend you ask your doctor about:
Metagenics Cortico-B5B6 (For added adrenal support and better energy, this is a great supplement. It is not a glandular extract but can work in conjunction with it to provide hormonal balance. Both my daughter (age 14) and I have taken this product with noticeable benefits. It can be used during and as you phase off of glandular extract for added support. Click the link to see the ingredients.)
Interplexus Seriphos (This product takes a different approach by calming the hypothalamus and pituitary glands. It is vegetarian and works great in conjunction with glandular extract. Some individuals get relief from insomnia or improved sleep with this product alone. It can be used during and as you phase off of glandular extract for added support.)
Metagenics Adreset (For added adrenal support and better energy, this is a great supplement. It is not a glandular extract but works in conjunction with it to provide hormonal balance. Some individuals get relief from insomnia or increased energy with this product alone or by using it long term in conjunction with Seriphos.)
Cheers, Friends, sweet dreams.
*I should note here, too, that some medical doctors, like Andrew Weil, advise against the use of adrenals, fearing they may do some harm to the body’s hormonal balance. I actually disagree with Dr. Weil on many issues and find it harder to respect doctors’ advice for insomnia when they themselves haven’t suffered from it, nor are they providing a solution that does work. But I love dialoguing and presenting both sides of a discussion; so it’s one piece to consider. We should be cautious with supplements and I appreciate his concern and warning.
Note: It is often best to take adrenals and adaptogens in the morning or before midday.
Here’s where to buy a grounding sheet. This is a queen fitted sheet which I would buy if I could choose over again, knowing now how effective the method is. However, you can also buy a half sheet if you have a king size bed or to make a slightly smaller initial investment.
emilysv says
Those grounding sheets sound awesome! I look forward to better sleep when my kiddos are older, but I’m not going to wish away what we have right now. Sometimes it’s hard when my little one doesn’t want to go to sleep or she is restless and can’t settle. But I do enjoy the bond we share nursing at night, she is the best little cuddle bug.
Megan Stevens says
Yes, I completely agree. We still have a family bed! I love these snuggle years and am savoring them. I found that when babies came, I was all too eager to stay awake watching them sleep, lol, feeling so thankful for them, but all the while jeopardizing my sleep. It’s a long, wonderful process, being a mama. It just takes some recovery for some of us!
Samantha says
I desperately want a grounding sheet. As soon as we have some more disposable income this is the first thing I will buy. I have been eyeing one for a long time! Thanks for the tips!
Megan Stevens says
Yay, I look forward to that for you!! My health had gotten so bad that my mom actually bought it for me, so loving… and she’s in a place where they can afford it. Thankful.
Yummy Inspirations (@YummyInspires) says
Fantastic that you’ve addressed your insomnia – it must an an incredible relief.
Megan Stevens says
Really huge!! What a difference. 🙂
Sarah McLain says
My husband and I have been talking about getting grounding sheet for-Ever… we need to just Do it! I’m so glad you’ve been able to get some sweet relief… being sooo tired but not being able to sleep is the worst!
Megan Stevens says
So true!
Tina T. says
Definitely sharing this with a friend of mine that’s been getting absolutely no sleep these days!
Megan Stevens says
So so glad, what a difference it has made to my world.
Renee Kohley says
Ohhh I need those sheets! I am taking an adrenal supplement right now. Not glandulars since I am nursing but they are herbal and blended with safe adaptogens. It really is helping a lot.
Megan Stevens says
Oh, I’m so glad it is helping. It’s so nice that the sheets are safe for babies and kids. 🙂
Megan Stevens says
So glad; thanks from both of us! 😉
naturallyloriel says
Wow, what an incredible resource for those who are dealing with this issue!! I love the idea of a grounding mat or sheets, and it always makes me wonder how much of a difference it would make for me.
Megan Stevens says
Thanks, Loriel. Perhaps worth a try.
provisionroom says
I’m so impressed with how relentless you have been to find the solution that was right for you! So many just give up and give in to medication or think they just have to live with lack-of-sleep. You persevered! And isn’t that sleep SWEET!!!
Megan Stevens says
Thanks, so true. Like my daddy always said, Pain is a great motivator. 🙂
Carey says
Wow, what an incredible article. I have just ordered the supplement and am ordering the grounding sheet. I have struggled with insomnia for 30+ years. I will report back after trying both and let you know if they worked for me. Thanks again for ‘new” information!
Megan Stevens says
Thanks, Carey!! One update to keep in mind is my husband sleeps better with his head on the grounding sheet, lol. (So he sleeps with his head at the foot of the bed.) And if I wake up in the middle of the night I often do the same thing and fall back to sleep really quickly this way, on my stomach with my torso and face right on the sheet. If we buy again I’ll buy the whole sheet for both of us, head to toe. I’ll look forward to hearing back a report from you; thanks!! 🙂
Joy says
Wondering if you know whether these sheets would work in a camper? Thanks.
Megan Stevens says
Hi Joy, a camper would be a great place to use the sheets because you could easily bring the cord through a nearby window and drive the grounding stake into the ground. Very mobile too, easy to pull up when it’s time to go and reground in a new location. Thanks for the great question.
Joy says
Thank you!
Joy Gardner says
Hi Megan,
I have been suffering with insomnia for about 7 years after a stressful life event. My primary issue is night waking and then staying awake for most of the night. I tend to wake just a couple of hours after falling asleep. I have maintained goods sleep habits and tried many things to help, while staying away form prescription medication. I have felt moments where I might get it under control, but then one bad night can set me back into a severe bout that takes months to unravel. I am interested in taking an adrenal supplement. I know my adrenals have suffered form my sleep anxiety. I am wondering if you experienced and anxious energy while taking the adrenal supplements? I assume taking them in the morning hours would be best. I was thinking of a combination of the Adrenal Cortex and the Seriphos.
I have a grounding pad I use at work, I have desk job, because my home is older and does not have grounded outlets.
Thank you for any advice,
Joy
Megan Stevens says
Hi Joy, Thanks for your questions. I have not had any anxious energy as a result of the supplements. I do take them in the morning only. The combination you mention sounds good. I’m sorry for your struggle, and I hope that these things help you to see good improvement.
Joy Gardner says
Thank you Megan. I will give them a try. Did you see improvement right away? Or do you feel it took a awhile to see results? I know everyone is different. Also, was there a psychological component you worked on as well a physiological component? I feel I have both going on in this cycle. Sorry so many questions, I know we are all unique in our experiences. I am wanting to try something new since my usual tools are not working any more.
Megan Stevens says
Hi Joy, for me the improvement was immediate. The very first night. Both my husband and I had very intense dreams the first few nights on the grounding sheet, which was the only psychological component. Regarding Seriphos, it is balancing; so taking in the morning provides that internal support without the risk of it causing wakefulness if taken at night. I’m sorry I don’t have more insight on the psychological piece. xoxo
Joy Gardner says
I appreciate you answering my questions. Thank you so much!
Megan Stevens says
You’re welcome! Thanks for your kind comments!! 🙂
Rebecca says
Hi Megan!
Seriphos I thought was used to lower cortisol? It can cause wakefulness? I have been taking this at night to lower cortisol without success so far. 🙁 Any thoughts?
Rebecca says
Megan, what was useful to you as far as Thorne adrenal cortex dosage? How much did you take? I am trying to find a practioner, until I do I am on my own for a bit. I got the grounding sheet!
Megan says
Hi Rebecca, dosage with adrenal supplements really varies person to person, and the one thing to be warned about is that if you get it “wrong” you won’t know if the supplement could be helpful. While I’ve figured out a lot of supplements for myself over the years, adrenals are harder to get right. With that said, I can only guess at my memory; I’m not sure: I either took two capsules in the morning, or I took one in the morning and one with lunch. So glad you got the grounding sheet! 🙂 Good luck and blessings!