What Is Melatonin And What Are The Benefits?

Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by your body’s pineal gland (a small, pea-sized gland located just above the center of your brain). Its primary function is to regulate sleep.

Your body typically produces more melatonin at night, after the sun goes down, and subsequently reduces the amount produced when the sun comes up.

The amount of melatonin one’s body produces can vary, based on the amount of sunlight you’re exposed to each day, as well as, your body’s natural clock.

Some studies have shown that melatonin production can also be decreased with prolonged exposure to blue light that stems from computers, cell phones, and TV screens.

Is It Safe To Take Melatonin?

Melatonin is typically considered safe, nontoxic, and not addictive for most individuals.

However, melatonin may interact with medications such as immunosuppressants, diabetes medications, antidepressants, blood thinners, and blood pressure medications. 

If you have any concerns, health conditions or are taking any medications, you may want to consult a health care professional before taking the supplement.

Melatonin For Insomnia

Melatonin is most commonly used for insomnia and improving sleep in different conditions.

For those individuals who experience issues falling or staying asleep, melatonin is also available as a supplement that can be taken in the form of a capsule, tincture and even gummies.

It is believed to be the most commonly used supplement by both adults and children.

Supplemental melatonin can be either derived from animals and microorganisms, but vegan melatonin is also common, which is synthetically manufactured in a laboratory. 

Melatonin Benefits Other Than Sleep

Other users who may benefit from taking melatonin include individuals enduring long flights, since it is thought to help reduce the symptoms of jet lag. It may also be a beneficial supplement for those individuals whose work/ sleep schedules are reversed.  

What Are The Side Effects of Melatonin? 

When considering if taking a melatonin supplement is right for you, individuals with preexisting health conditions, pregnant or nursing mothers, or those on prescription medications are suggested to consult a physician beforehand.

Even though melatonin typically doesn’t produce very severe side effects, it has the possibility of causing nausea, dizziness, headaches, irritability, and drowsiness if the user ingests too large of an amount. 

Can I Take Melatonin With Other Supplements?

Yes! Many experts agree that taking melatonin with other supplements like L-theanine and gamma-aminobutyric acid may help with relaxing and falling asleep as it provides a synergistic effect.

Many dietary supplement manufacturers often include other natural herbs in their melatonin products.

A popular addition is passion flower as its known to provide a calming effect. Early studies suggest passion flower provides a boost in GABA levels.

How Much Melatonin Should I Take For Sleeping? 

For those individuals who have never taken a melatonin supplement, it is suggested starting with a small dose of .5 mg to 1 mg about 30 mins before going to bed. Then, if you think you need a larger amount, try increasing to a dose in the 3 to 5 mg range. 

Where To Purchase Melatonin?

Nutriair offers flexible options for getting a good night rest such as capsules, tinctures, and inhalable supplements incorporate vegan melatonin, as well as a few other supplements (L-Theanine, GABA, Passion Flower Extract, Valerian Root, and Lemon Balm), which are also used to promote better sleep.

Depending on your preference, each of the options offer specific benefits. The capsule form is the most common means of ingesting the supplement, and can provide the user with an easy and consistent way of receiving the same dosage.

Nutriair's inhalable devices offer a more portable, fast acting, and convenient, means of administering supplements, while also providing the user with more control of the amount being ingested. Melatonin in the form of a tincture is available for individuals who may want to receive a smaller dosage, or have a hard time swallowing capsules, and prefer not to inhale their supplements.

Conclusion

While melatonin is typically considered safe for most individuals, you may want to consult a healthcare professional if you have any health conditions or are any medications.

When deciding to take melatonin for the first time, it is best to start with a small dose of .5 mg to 1 mg and work your way up, until you find a dose that works the best for you.

With a range of options to choose from, from gummies to inhalable supplements, there is a method of consuming melatonin that can help you fall asleep a little easier.