Melatonin, a hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, was first identified in 1958 by Dr. Aaron B. Lerner. In the 1980s and early 1990s, studies started to explore melatonin's role in regulating circadian rhythms, particularly in relation to sleep disorders such as insomnia and jet lag. Today, individuals regularly use melatonin supplements to address sleep problems. Knowing exactly when to take melatonin is vital for achieving the best results.
What’s the Best Time to Take?
The best time to take melatonin is about one to two hours before you want to fall asleep. This allows the hormone to be absorbed and start working when you need it most. Taking melatonin too late in the evening can result in residual drowsiness the next morning, as it can take anywhere from 5 to 10 hours to clear from your system.
Daily Usage
While you can take melatonin daily, it is not advisable to do so for more than a few weeks without consulting a healthcare provider. Melatonin is not habit-forming and is not a controlled substance. However, long-term use without medical supervision is not recommended, as it may mask underlying health issues.
Primary Functions and Properties
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland and plays a critical role in regulating sleep-wake cycles. It signals to the body when it's time to sleep, promoting a restful night. Additionally, melatonin has significant antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage.
Additional Benefits
Melatonin may help prevent weight gain associated with certain mental health medications. There is also some indication that melatonin could aid in weight management for postmenopausal women, although more research is needed.
Melatonin may lower blood pressure, which is beneficial for some individuals. However, if you are taking medication for high blood pressure, combining it with melatonin could lower your blood pressure excessively. It is essential to consult your healthcare provider before starting melatonin if you are on blood pressure medication.
Melatonin in Your Diet
Certain foods and drinks, such as milk, tart cherry juice, raw nuts, mushrooms, and fish, contain melatonin. While these foods are associated with better sleep, there is limited research on their effectiveness. Including these foods in your diet may contribute to improved sleep quality over time.
Recommended Dosage
For most adults, the appropriate melatonin dosage ranges from three mg to five mg. It is advisable to start with a lower dose and adjust as needed. Children usually take between one mg and two mg, but it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before giving melatonin to a child.
Melatonin typically has a half-life of one to two hours, meaning it is mostly cleared from your system within five to 10 hours after intake. To avoid feeling groggy the next day, ensure you can get at least eight hours of sleep after taking melatonin.
Potential Side Effects
Most side effects are mild, but it's important to use melatonin under proper guidance, especially when taken for extended periods or in high doses. Common side effects include headaches, nausea, dizziness, and daytime drowsiness. Melatonin can also interact with other medications, so it is important to discuss its use with a healthcare provider.
Experience Restful Nights with Apeiron Elementals' Melatonin Supplement
Maintaining high-quality sleep is important to support your overall well-being. At Apeiron Elementals, we offer a melatonin supplement designed to support your natural sleep-wake cycle, helping you achieve restful and rejuvenating sleep. Our formula contains a 3mg serving in an easy to take quick-dissolve tablet. Our commitment to quality and clinically effective solutions makes it a reliable choice for those seeking to improve their sleep patterns. As always, consult your healthcare provider to ensure our supplement aligns with your individual health needs.