Melatonin Side Effects
Hey…I am considering to take melatonin to help me sleep. What’s the melatonin side effects that I need to know?
Melatonin Fact
Melatonin is a naturally occurring bodily hormone produced by your pineal gland that is responsible for our body’s patterns and rhythms. It helps us to control our natural sleep-wake cycle. The highest level of melatonin in our blood is just before bedtime.
Hence one of the major functions of melatonin supplements is helping us to readjust the body’s biological clock such as treating insomnia, jet lag and other sleep disorders.
Some also believe that melatonin benefits are: the immune system as well as prevents cancer and other diseases. Others speak of the anti-aging benefits, citing clinical data showing that melatonin slows down the aging process.
Melatonin Side Effects
As it is a kind of hormonal supplements, there are many different potential melatonin side effects to contend with which may make this a unwise choice for your condition, unless you find a quality supplement with recommended dosages that suitable for you.
Hopefully there will be more adequate clinical research to prove the safety of melatonin supplements in the future.
Reported melatonin side effects may include:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Depression
- Nightmares and vivid dreams
- Irritability
- Abdominal cramps and dizziness.
Melatonin may interact with various medications, including:
- Birth control pills
- Blood-thinning medications (anticoagulants)
- Immunosuppressant
- Diabetes medications
Melatonin facts also point to negative effects on the reproductive system as well as decreased sex drive both women and men.
Since melatonin is a hormone, it can affect many internal body processes. Melatonin fact shows that people with depression may experience worsening systems.
Melatonin Dosage
If you do decide to take this supplement, make sure that you stick with the recommended melatonin dosage and always consult your doctor or qualified medical professional before you start.
You need to start with a low melatonin dosage – .3mg to 5mg to treat insomnia and jet lag. Exercise and slight lifestyle changes may help with various sleep disorders for your particular condition before taking this supplement due to melatonin side effects.
