Melatonin information, FAQ and product listing page. This page contains information and frequently asked questions about melatonin as well as a complete list of products containing melatonin.
Quick jump to the sub-sections on this page:
What is melatonin and what does it do?
Melatonin, N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine, is a hormone that your naturally produced by the body in the pineal gland of the brain. The release of melatonin correlates with the body's cycle of day and night. Your body produces its highest levels of melatonin at night.
Only a minute amount of the hormone can be found in foods.
What are the benefits of taking melatonin?
Melatonin may play a crucial role in sleeping and a whole lot more. Darkness stimulates the production of melatonin as light inhibits it, regulating itself on the body’s internal clock. Some research has shown that melatonin helps individuals sleep, diminishes the amount of times you wake up at night, and improves the quality of your sleep.
Melatonin can also be helpful in treating forms of jet lag, as it promotes a much quicker recovery of the “shake it off” stage an individual can experience after a long flight.
Melatonin can also provide positive psychological benefits on your mood.
Who can benefit from taking melatonin?
Those that travel frequently or work rotating shifts can benefit from supplementing with melatonin. As muscles grow and repair during sleep, weight-trainers, bodybuilders, and athletes may also benefit from taking melatonin.
It’s used by millions of people worldwide to have a quality night’s sleep. Those that should not take melatonin are pregnant women.
How much melatonin should I take?
It varies depending on your age. As discussed earlier, your body produces melatonin naturally during your sleep. Doctors recommend a level similar to the one your own body produces, about 1-3 milligrams taken 90-120 minutes before you go to sleep. Melatonin should NOT be consumed during the day.
Does melatonin have any side effects?
Side effects of melatonin are uncommon, but can include grogginess, sleepwalking, and disorientation.
