Sleep Science Melatonin, What It Is?: It’s becoming more common for Americans to take melatonin supplements for sleep aid. But the supplements remain unregulated. As well as may pose serious health risks, a new study has found.
Sleep Science Melatonin, What It Is?
Studies | Sleep Science Melatonin
Adults aged 20 and over who took melatonin from 1999 to 2018 were compared across all demographic groups. Melatonin consumption rose steadily over the years. From less than 0.5 percent in 1999-2000 to just over 2 percent in 2017-2018.
What Is Melatonin? | Sleep Science Melatonin
Melatonin’s maximum recommended dose is 5 milligrammes. But researchers found that between 1999 and 2018. The number of people who took more than that dosage steadily increased.
In fact, researchers believe that the actual level of melatonin in commercial supplements. May be as much as 478 percent higher than what’s advertised on the label.
Although melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that the brain releases in response to darkness.
Supplements of the hormone are commonly used to aid sleep. In those who suffer from jet lag, delayed sleep-wake phase disorder, anxiety before flights, or insomnia during their trip.
What Research Shows?
As far as melatonin supplements go, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health says there’s not enough information on the possible side effects to have a clear picture on their overall safety.
Melatonin supplements, on the other hand, may cause serious allergic reactions if they are take with other medications.
According to a 2017 study that tested 31 different melatonin supplements, 26 percent contained serotonin. That may have harmful effects even at relatively low levels.
The Center for Science in the Public Interest also warned that some melatonin supplements may not contain what is list on the product label.
Additionally, headaches, dizziness and nausea are also possible side effects, but the long-term effects are still unknown
However, the FDA does regulate nutritional supplements, such as melatonin. But the regulations are less stringent than those for prescription or OTC drugs.
Dosage
When it comes to melatonin supplements, “less is more,” according to Luis F. Buenaver, assistant professor of psychiatry and behavioural sciences at John Hopkins Medicine. One to three milligrammes, taken two hours before going to bed, was his recommendation.
People who are pregnant either breastfeeding, have autoimmune disease, seizure disorder, or depression should not take melatonin.
Also Read: