Melatonin

Melatonin

Definition

Melatonin is a natural hormone that helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle. It signals your body when it's time to sleep, making it easier to fall asleep at night.

Example

A shopper might find melatonin supplements in the health section of a store to help them sleep better after a long day.

Synonyms

sleep hormone melatonina N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine

Frequently Asked Questions

What does taking melatonin do for you?

Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate your sleep-wake cycle, signaling to your body that it's time to sleep. Supplementing with melatonin can help improve sleep onset and quality, especially in cases of insomnia or jet lag.

Why is melatonin no longer recommended?

Melatonin is still recommended in certain situations, but concerns about its long-term effects, potential side effects, and the lack of regulation in supplements have led some experts to advise caution. It's important to consult a healthcare provider before use.

Is it OK to take melatonin every night?

While occasional use of melatonin can be safe for many people, taking it every night may lead to dependency or disrupt your natural sleep cycle. It's best to use it under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Why don't doctors recommend melatonin?

Some doctors may hesitate to recommend melatonin due to concerns about its effectiveness, potential side effects, and the variability in supplement quality. They often prefer behavioral approaches or other treatments for sleep issues.

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