European researchers successfully isolated bioactive peptides from milk in 2000. These peptides have been found to have a sedative effect on the brain and induce sustained sleep patterns. They accomplish this in the same way that benzodiazepine tranquilizers (diazepam, lorazepam, clonazepam, etc) do--by activating receptors for the neurotransmitter GABA.

Because good sleep is associated with skin health, and skin health is closely related to brain health, researchers have continued to study bioactive milk peptides. The latest findings are that these substances also lower levels of the detrimental stress hormone cortisol, and they lower heart rate, blood pressure and improve stress-related physical and psychological symptoms using doses of 150 mg daily. Besides improving insomnia, the peptides increase daytime wakefulness.

After a 30-day trial in 60 women, significant improvements were also seen in digestion, cognitive function, cardiovascular function and social difficulty when compared to a placebo. Bioactive milk peptides are now being widely used in Europe as a treatment for insomnia and to reduce the effects of stress. In the U.S. bioactive peptides can be purchased through Life Extension in the products, Enhanced Natural Sleep without melatonin and in Bioactive Milk Peptides. Or you can try drinking warm milk.

Resource: Haas, Robert. 2011. Widely Used in Europe...Natural Sedative Restores Youthful Sleep. Life Extension Journal, April: 27-33.