What is it?
Melatonin is a hormone that is produced naturally by the body in response to darkness. It regulates our sleep cycle and circadian rhythm. Melatonin production increases in the evening and is maximized at night-time as we sleep. (Melatonin: What You Need To Know, 2022). Melatonin production is impacted when we are exposed to light sources.
What are the benefits of using melatonin?
Although natural melatonin production by the body is sufficient to promote sleep, melatonin supplements could be utilized in the form of capsules and pills to assist with sleeping but should be taken for short-term. Melatonin may be used to get relief from things like jet lag, insomnia, sleep disorders in blind, circadian rhythm sleep disorders, delayed sleep-wake phase disorder, anxiety in pre-surgery and post-surgery patients. (Melatonin for Sleep: Does It Work?, n.d.).
How much can be consumed and for how long?
According to Luis Fernando Buenaver, you can take 1 to 3 milligrams of melatonin 2 hours before bedtime. For easing jet lag you can take it 2 hours before bedtime when you reach your destination. Additionally, you may also start taking the supplements a few days before traveling (Melatonin for Sleep: Does It Work?, n.d.). It is safe to take it for one to two months before bedtime. Once better sleep has been achieved you should discontinue its use and see how well you are sleeping. Again this should be used short term.
When should you stop taking melatonin?
If taking melatonin supplement for 2 or more weeks and it is not helping, then you should discontinue using it and consult with your health care provider. Lastly, you should not take melatonin supplements if you have an autoimmune disease, or if you are taking medications for diabetes, high blood pressure, anticoagulants, or anticonvulsants. People taking contraceptive drugs, CNS depressants, fluvoxamine, or immunosuppressants should likewise not take melatonin as it can interact with these medications (Staff, 2021). Also, it is recommended to not take melatonin if you are pregnant or breastfeeding (Melatonin for Sleep: Does It Work?, n.d.).Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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