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How To Use Melatonin Supplements In Place Of Insomnia Medications

Melatonin supplements are powerful antioxidants that have benefits for restoring the natural sleep cycle, as well as in the treatment of several cancers. Melatonin is a potent anti aging hormone and plays an important role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is a natural light-sensitive hormone that is released by the pineal glands in response to the day-night cycle. The level of melatonin in the bloodstream is low during the daylight hours, and increases towards evening, reaching a peak at about midnight. As daylight begins to dim, the eyes send a signal to the brain to release natural melatonin which results in the feeling of sleepiness.

Melatonin Benefits

Melatonin secretion declines as we get older, and by the age of 60 we only produce about half the melatonin we did when we were younger. As a result, many older people suffer from sleep problems. In addition, as we lose the ability to produce melatonin, we start to age more rapidly, and our reproductive hormone production also slows down, bringing on menopause in women. Other ways in which this product can benefit you is:

  • Melatonin for insomnia. Studies have shown that supplementation with melatonin is effective for people with sleep problems, for people who work night shifts, or those with jet lag.
  • Cancer protective agent. Melatonin can be used to treat certain cancers due to its antioxidant properties, and is especially useful for treating breast cancer.
  • Anti aging hormones. Small doses of daily melatonin can help combat the aging process.
  • Anti depressive. Since certain classes of depression such as seasonal affective disorder are caused by low levels of melatonin, some people may find melatonin supplements useful in the treatment of depressive symptoms.

Melatonin Dosage

When using melatonin for insomnia, the recommended doses range from between 0.5mg to 6mg depending upon the individual's response. As an anticancer drug however, higher doses of between 10mg to 50mg may be required. As some people can develop a tolerance for the effects of melatonin, it is usually recommended that it is only taken 4 or 5 nights a week, and at the lowest dose possible. Melatonin is available without a prescription in most countries.

Melatonin Side Effects

Side effects associated with the use of melatonin supplements are rare but may include grogginess, nightmares and headaches. They are probably safer to use in the treatment of insomnia than prescription sleeping pills since they are not addictive and only act to restore the body's natural circadian rhythm.

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