Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in the body. It is generally secreted at night, where in most people, levels are the greatest during the normal hours of sleep. 

The level of melatonin in the body rapidly increases in the late evening, peaks after midnight and decreases toward the morning. It promotes sleep by fixing abnormalities in sleep-wake cycles and by releasing a direct soporific effect, namely when taken during the day.

It is now believed that the initiation and overall quality of sleep is related to this natural rise and fall of melatonin. Most people exhibit normal day and night melatonin levels until they reach their mid-20s. Melatonin levels tend to decline with age and by their mid-60s, many people exhibit significantly decreased day and night melatonin levels. 

This may be one of the reasons older people experience difficulty sleeping. This connection between melatonin levels and the quality of sleep has contributed to the interest in melatonin as a natural sleeping aid. Melatonin may also benefit travelers crossing time zones and shift workers experiencing disrupted sleep patterns and jet lag.  

Melatonin supplements should be taken in the evening. Studies also suggest that Melatonin may affect the immune response to cancer, possibly by creating effects on cytokines, which inhibit the growth of tumors by killing infected cells.

Because it plays an important role in regulating the body clock, taking a melatonin supplement may be helpful in alleviating jet lag or getting used to working an unusual shift. It is unknown if melatonin supplements can improve the quality of sleep or alertness during the day. Extensive studies have not been conducted on the use of melatonin supplements, but it is generally safe for very short-term use for jet lag and similar conditions.

• Side effects: No major side effects have been reported in short-term use. Effects of long-term use are not known, and it is therefore not recommended beyond short-term use. Chronic use of a melatonin supplement may affect your body’s ability to manufacture the hormone.
• Indications: Melatonin supplements should not be used by children or pregnant/nursing women. Melatonin levels may be affected by aspirin, beta blocker drugs, or tranquilizers. Long-term use is not recommended. Consult your physician and use as directed.

MELATONIN - IN STOCK

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