Benefits of Melatonin

Do you know the benefits of melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain.

It’s called the “hormone of darkness”, because the pineal gland is stimulated by darkness.

Secretion of melatonin into the blood peaks in the middle of the night. Because of artificial light, people get too few hours of pure darkness.

Okay, But What Good is It?

Melatonin is only one of the most powerful antioxidants. It has a greater ability to help you than even vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene. It can easily cross cell membranes and the blood-brain barrier.

Surprised? Well, it’s true.

Also, since melatonin is produced in response to the sun setting, it keeps the body in sync with the rhythm of the day. It regulates the sleep cycle.

Unfortunately, the production of melatonin decreases as we get older.

Side Effects of Taking Melatonin

None to report.

However, it’s a strong hormone. So the following people shouldn’t take supplemental melatonin:

• pregnant / nursing women

• people with allergies

• people with auto-immune disorders or cancer

• healthy children

• people taking prescription meds or OTC drugs (be cautious)

Consult your doctor for further advice.

It’s best to take a melatonin supplement 2 hours before bed. This will release the added hormone at the same time as the natural hormone.

NOTE: Keep your melatonin levels high naturally:

• eat regular meals (keeps the body in sync)

• eat lightly at night (digesting heavy foods keeps you awake)

• eat foods rich in tryptophan (turkey, milk, eggs)

• don’t drink coffee, tea, or soda (caffeine makes it hard to sleep)

• don’t exercise at night (delays melatonin secretion)