An overview of the benefits of the nutritional hormone supplement melatonin. Read on for how melatonin make correct sleeping disorders and other ailments.
Many researchers believe this is why, as we grow older, we sleep less. It would also explain why people feel sleepier during the winter months when the daylight hours are shorter.
Since the introduction of oral melatonin, several other beneficial claims have been made. Most remain unproven except in animal studies.
As with sleep problems, melatonin is promoted as a way of overcoming jet lag. Studies have shown that it does have an effect if you are crossing more than five time zones. Its use is more beneficial on a west to east trip, say from Chicago to London. Melatonin has little effect on trips from east to west. On trips of less than five time zones, researchers have found melatonin to have even less effect.
As an anti-oxidant, melatonin is reputed to be an effective free radical scavenger. The reduction of melatonin produced in the elderly may suggest why they are more susceptible to tissue damage from free radicals.
Based on studies in animals, many scientists believe that melatonin can help inhibit certain types of cancers, including breast, lung, prostate and brain. In the case of breast cancer, laboratory studies suggest that melatonin acts much like estrogen therapy reducing the start of cancerous growths.
There have been several studies that suggest that melatonin inhibits reproduction, therefore suggesting it may be a more natural way of birth control. This appears to work better in men than women as melatonin in lab studies showed a decrease in sperm count among male rats.
The proponents of melatonin as an oral supplement insist that its use is safe and effective. Since melatonin is a nutritional supplement and not a drug, its use is not regulated by the FDA. Many European countries and Canada have banned over the counter sales, and require a doctor's proscription for distribution.
The most recent studies suggest that Melatonin seems safe for those not taking other medications, are not pregnant or breastfeeding and are otherwise healthy adults.
You should not take melatonin without consulting your doctor if you suffer from migraines, depression, have an eye disease or if you need to remain alert in your profession. Those who operate heavy machinery or drive or fly should not take melatonin as drowsiness could put their lives or others at risk.
Because of concerns with virus that are transmitted through animal products, you should make sure that the melatonin product you choose is synthetically made. Known short-term side effects are minor and include headaches, giddiness, unclear thought patterns and nausea. Long-term side effects are still unknown.
