Melatonin


Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the brain's pituitary gland. It has become a popular supplement in the treatment of sleep disorders and jet-lag.

Effects of Melatonin

Melatonin is a natural substance, synthesized from serotonin derivatives produced by animals of higher intelligence. It acts by interacting with melatonin receptors to influence sleep cycles. Melatonin is also an extremely important and powerful antioxidant. As an antioxidant, it plays a pivotal role in the protection of DNA. It is also naturally synthesized by plants like rice, and melatonin ingested in food and supplements has been shown to able to reach receptor sites in the brains of mammals. Some scientists refer to melatonin as the ‘master hormone', as it regulates the production of most other hormones.

Sleep Regulator

Higher quantities of melatonin are produced by the pineal gland at night than during the day, and it is believed to regulate the circadian rhythm of sleep-wake cycles. Light exposure inhibits the production of melatonin, while darkness permits its secretion. Some experts believe modern lighting may affect the ability of the pineal gland to secrete this hormone, and by taking melatonin supplements, normal sleep patterns can be established. It has been particularly effective in helping sleep patterns in autistic children. In addition to insomnia, melatonin is touted as treatment for jet-lag, and seems to re-establish sleep cycles when taken by travelers prior to bed time. For both insomnia and jet-lag, melatonin supplements should be taken thirty minutes before going to sleep. If going on a long trip, you may also want to take it to getting on your flight.

Melatonin as an Antioxidant

Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant that can cross the blood-brain barrier and cell membranes. It is also more chemically stable that other antioxidants, and has been demonstrated in some studies to protect DNA from damage by carcinogens. The dominant antioxidant abilities of melatonin may reduce or prevent irregular heartbeats and Parkinson's related damage, and possibly increase overall longevity and life span. Since studies show melatonin to reduce the decline in hormone production that occurs as we age, melatonin's ability to stabilize hormones associated with overall health combined with its antioxidant strength give it strong support in the medical community as a immune system enhancer and longevity supporter.

Melatonin and Memory

Melatonin can alter the electrical processes associated with the neural physiology of memory functions. Melatonin receptors may also play a role in memory and learning. Melatonin has been shown to prevent a type of protein from causing neuron bunching and tangles that appear in Alzheimer's disease, and may prove effective in treating the disease itself.

Taking Melatonin

Studies indicate that melatonin supplements contain up to ten times the amount needed to produce the desired affects in helping sleep. While it appears to have no toxic side affects, some have attributed headaches, mental impairment, nightmares, and mood changes to taking melatonin supplements. These claims are unsubstantiated, but, since melatonin is a hormone, it is believed that moderation in its use is wise. Start with low dosage levels, and increase if needed, but avoid using melatonin for long periods (over three months) at high dosages. Melatonin may aggravate autoimmune disorders, and claims of its ability to increase sex drive lack evidence.

By Doug Vanisky           


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