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Melatonin: What Is It and How Can It Help?
Melatonin: What Is It and How Can It Help?
Melatonin is a hormone produced deep in the brain that plays a major role in regulating your sleep/wake cycle. When it’s dark outside your body produces and releases melatonin. When it’s light outside, your melatonin production is reduced.
Melatonin acts as a chemical messenger to tell other parts of your body that it’s time for bed. Melatonin supplements taken before bed may help signal to your body that it’s time to sleep, especially with changing time zones or work schedules, and other unplanned sleep disruptions. Studies show that short-term use of melatonin supplements is safe for most people, however, if sleep problems persist melatonin is not recommended as a long-term solution.
Melatonin: What Is It and How Can It Help?
Melatonin: What Is It and How Can It Help?
Melatonin: What Is It and How Can It Help?
Melatonin is a hormone produced deep in the brain that plays a major role in regulating your sleep/wake cycle. When it’s dark outside your body produces and releases melatonin. When it’s light outside, your melatonin production is reduced.
Melatonin acts as a chemical messenger to tell other parts of your body that it’s time for bed. Melatonin supplements taken before bed may help signal to your body that it’s time to sleep, especially with changing time zones or work schedules, and other unplanned sleep disruptions. Studies show that short-term use of melatonin supplements is safe for most people, however, if sleep problems persist melatonin is not recommended as a long-term solution.
Common Melatonin Over-the-Counter (OTC) Brands
Common OTC melatonin brands include:
- Nature’s Bounty
- Solgar
- Vicks® Zzzquil PURE Zzzs
- Midnite Sleep Health
Important Update: Acetaminophen
A NOTE ABOUT DYE-FREE PRODUCTS: Dye-free medications and supplements are a great option for individuals who prefer or require products without dyes, such as those with allergies, sensitivities, or personal preferences. Importantly, both dye-containing and dye-free options are held to the same rigorous safety and quality standards. If you’re unsure which is right for you or your family, talk to your pharmacist or healthcare provider. They can help you choose the option that best suits your needs.
References:
- http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2005/09/30/AR2005093001998.html
- http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR602285/DSECTION=precautions-
- http://www.drugs.com/drug-interactions/multivitamin.html
- http://www.naturemade.com/resource-center/articles-and-videos/immune-health/timing-your-vitamins
- http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/912.html
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.prevention.com/food/healthy-eating-tips/your-breakfast-giving-you-cancer
- http://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/
- http://www.ag.ndsu.edu/pubs/yf/foods/fn1607.pdf
- http://www.fda.gov/Food/DietarySupplements/UsingDietarySupplements/ucm110567.htm
Safe Use Tips & Takeaways
Heart Health Takeaways
Before managing your sleep problems on your own, make sure to talk with a healthcare provider about all the options, as well as any other medications or supplements that you might be taking. There are numerous reasons for sleep problems, ranging from short-term stressors to serious, long-term sleep disorders. Your doctor can help find the right solution for you.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
* Under 3 years: a tiny rice-sized smear
* Ages 3–6: a pea-size amount
Supervise brushing so they don’t swallow it.