Narcolepsy is a chronic neurological condition characterized by overwhelming daytime drowsiness and sudden sleep incidences.

For people with narcolepsy, staying awake for long periods of time is often very difficult regardless of what is going on around them. This type of condition can disrupt a person’s life to a very large extent.

The most common signs and symptoms of narcolepsy include:

- Excessive Daytime Sleepiness

- Sudden Loss of Muscle Tone (Cataplexy)

- Sleep Paralysis

- Hallucinations

Restless nighttime sleep and occasional automatic behavior can also occur in people afflicted with narcolepsy. In episodes of automatic behavior, a person can function as they would normally while they are actually sleeping. When the person awakens, he or she will have no memory of performing the functions. Automatic behavior affects almost 40% of people with narcolepsy

The signs and symptoms of narcolepsy usually first develop in a person between the ages of 10 and 25, but the condition can start before the age of 10 or in your 20s and 30s. It's rare for narcolepsy to begin after age 40.

The cause of narcolepsy has yet to be determined but much research points towards genetics or perhaps a trigger of some sort that may affect brain chemicals

Once you have been diagnosed with narcolepsy, a medical doctor will most likely tell you that prescription medication is the only answer. I beg to differ. Some natural approaches to treating narcolepsy include:

5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) - This compound, which is produced by the body from tryptophan, is naturally found in many foods and most commonly extracted from the seeds of the Griffonia plant. Clinical studies indicate that 5-HTP is a safe, natural way to boost the serotonin levels in the brain. One study, showed a decreased amount of daytime sleep attacks in narcoleptics, from a 600 mg dose.

Lecithin Granules (1 Tbsp. 3 times per day) - One of the main substances that digests cholesterol in the human body, lecithin is produced naturally when the liver is functioning properly and vitamin F is present. Some natural sources of vitamin F include: melon, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, and cereals like rye, oats, barley and wheat. Supplementing with lecithin can be very beneficial as it helps to support the liver and aids in the metabolism of fat. Aside from that it also releases Phosphatidyl choline, which nourishes the brain.

Calcium (2000 mg daily at bedtime) - Essential for energy production and the nervous system.

Magnesium (500 mg twice during the day and at bedtime) – Aids in the absorption of calcium.

Chromium polynicotinate ( 200 mcg daily) - Boosts energy and regulates sugar metabolism.

Coenzyme Q10 (Take as directed on label) - Promotes brain circulation.

Freeform Amino Acid Complex (Take as directed on label) - Increases energy levels needed for proper brain function. Use a formula that contains all the essential amino acids.

L-Glutamine (Take as directed on label) - Promotes mental ability. Often called “brain fuel” because it can pass the blood-brain barrier freely.

High Potency Multivitamin and Mineral Complex (Take as directed on label) – Prevents deficiencies and provides nutrients essential to balance bodily functions.

Flaxseed Oil (Take as directed on label) - Protects cell membranes.

Vitamin B complex (100 mg twice daily) - Major B vitamins boost metabolism and are essential for increased B vitamin daily energy levels and normal brain function.

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (2000-6000 mg daily in divided doses) - Increases energy and protects against free radical damage.

Also remember to:

Avoid caffeine, nicotine and alcohol.

Exercise regularly, but at least three hours before bedtime.

Try to establish a routine time for going to bed and getting up and make it habitual.