Mount Sinai NY
1-13-2023 1:31am

What is Melatonin?

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Melatonin is a hormone that controls your circadian rhythms, also known as your body's internal clock which tells you when to sleep. The brain produces and circulates melatonin based on the amount of lightness or darkness it senses. As a person grows older, their brain creates less melatonin; however, they can obtain replacement hormone via supplements.

Melatonin is popularly associated with issues such as jet lag, insomnia, and the delayed sleep phase disorder (in which one falls asleep later and wakes up later). In the case of those who are visually impaired, it can even be used to address circadian rhythm sleep disorders. To illustrate, it may help people fall asleep a tad quicker, although the influence this has on their sleeping quality and amount of rest remains under scrutiny. Also, further research is necessary to deduce whether it could be beneficial to those who work on late shifts.

Melatonin could do more than regulate sleep. Research is still ongoing, but initial studies appear to indicate the hormone's role in controlling body temperature as well as reducing nighttime blood pressure in those suffering from hypertension. Though there is a disparity amongst research results concerning how melatonin affects blood sugar, animal studies have suggested it could have a role in aiding weight loss in humans - though further research must be conducted to verify this.

Preliminary studies indicate that melatonin could potentially provide benefits for people with macular degeneration, gastroenterology reflux disease (heartburn), tinnitus (ringing in the ears), and migraines.

Is it a Good Idea?
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Considering melatonin similar to a sleeping pill, it is generally viewed as safe for occasional use. However, the long-term effects of melatonin have yet to be established. If you have a medical condition or are pregnant or nursing, you should consult your doctor prior to taking any to determine the correct use and dosage for you. Additionally, allergic reactions to melatonin have been known to occur.

Is it advisable?
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Taking into account that melatonin is similar to a sleeping pill, it is generally regarded as harmless if it is used occasionally. At the same time, the lasting effects of melatonin remain to be studied. If you have any medical issues, are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is suggested that you discuss with a doctor before use in order to decide the best dosage for you. Moreover, allergy to melatonin has been reported.

In the U.S., melatonin is classified as a dietary supplement; thus, it is not subject to the same rigorous regulations as over-the-counter drugs. In specific countries, a prescription is necessary to obtain it. In addition, melatonin is known to have incompatible interactions with multiple medications, such as anticonvulsants, birth control drugs, blood thinners, blood pressure drugs, central nervous system depressants, diabetes medications, diazepam (Valium, Valtoco), seizure threshold-lowering drugs, fluvoxamine (Luvox), and immunosuppressants.

Research indicates that the human body naturally generates melatonin, and indeed, it can also be found in breast milk. Additionally, various edibles, such as eggs, fish, and nuts, contain considerable amounts of natural melatonin, together with some species of mushrooms and grains. Furthermore, tart cherries contain melatonin as well as tryptophan – an amino acid used to manufacture melatonin and serotonin – which might be beneficial in facilitating quicker onset and longer duration of sleep.

Start with 0.3 milligram to 1 milligram of melatonin so the desired effect is achieved. If this dose does not produce the desired outcome, consult a doctor about raising the amount. Taking an excess of melatonin could potentially result in headaches, nausea, and drowsiness during the day.

Is it safe for children to consume melatonin? With regards to short-term, low-dose usage, the answer is affirmative both for children and adults alike, but not for infants. Being aware that the FDA does not regulate melatonin strictly, it is of the utmost importance to consult with a pediatrician to learn what is the appropriate brand and dosage according to the age, weight, and overall health of the child.

Synthetic melatonin is recommended over the natural version in order to reduce the risk of contracting potential viruses or other pathogens contained in the animal-derived glands.

Melatonin won't give you immediate results. To maximize its effects, it's advisable to take it some hours prior to going to bed. To promote a more restful sleep, make sure the room you're sleeping in has adequate darkness and temperature. Refrain from using electronic devices late in the evening and aim to go to bed at the same time every night.

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