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Melatonin |
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capsule/tablet |
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| The hormone Melatonin is found in every cell of
every living organism and is responsible for regulating biological rhythms both in humans
and in animals. The release of Melatonin--which occurs when our eyes register darkness--is
what makes us feel drowsy at night. Much of the data that has been gathered relates to its
role as timekeeper and its resulting ability to induce sleep, reduce jet lag, and untangle
confused body rhythms induced by shift work. Exciting research suggests that Melatonin has a wider range of actions. These include anticancer, anti-aging, and antioxidant effects, as well as effects on fertility, sex drive and the immune system. Melatonin levels normally go up when it turns dark, and they are low during daylight hours. This hormone is also an antioxidant/free-radical scavenger that appears to slow the aging process. The production of Melatonin is high in youth and declines steadily with age. Many signs of aging are associated with this loss of Melatonin production, but cause and effect have not been proven. Large doses of Melatonin have been administered to animals and humans without any known side effects. Supplements of Melatonin, taken at night, often help with insomnia and in overcoming symptoms of jet lag (for jet lag, it is taken near the bedtime in the new time zone for two or three days before departure and after arrival). Unlike most medications for insomnia, Melatonin is not addictive. When it is used for insomnia, it does not leave you with any hangover or withdrawal symptoms. Some animal and human studies have shown benefits in reducing cancer and enhancing immune function. In animal studies, there is a clear increase in longevity (unfortunately, it is difficult to do longevity studies in humans). In humans, it has helped in treating depression and also in lowering the eye pressures in patients with glaucoma. Maintaining levels of Melatonin may prove to be just as important in retarding the aging process, protecting against degenerative diseases and increasing longevity, as is maintaining optimal levels of other antioxidants, such as Vitamin C and E, and Selenium. Aging and menopause is associated with a decline in Melatonin secretion and the symptoms of menopause, such as deranged sleep cycles and fatigue. Remarkable studies demonstrate that adding Melatonin to conventional cancer treatment improves the outcome of the treatment while reducing its toxicity.
The usual dose is 3-6mg at bedtime. Sometimes higher doses are helpful for insomnia and depression. Some people seem to benefit from taking 10 or more mg of Melatonin, without developing any side effects. Larger doses are being studied for birth control because of Melatonin's effect on sexual hormone balance. Should only be taken under professional supervision by children, pregnant or nursing women, people trying to conceive, those with hormonal imbalances, people taking steroids, those with severe allergies or other autoimmune disorders and people with immune system cancers such as lymphoma or leukemia.
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