Melatonin for sleep: get your deep, peaceful rest back naturally
Are you overcome at night by the fear of knowing that another long sleepless night awaits you?
It's frustrating, isn't it? Spending hours staring at the ceiling, tossing and turning in bed, and trying to hide your frustration by hiding under your pillow?
If you've tried medications, relaxing teas, breathing exercises, and even counting sheep, but nothing works, you need to know about a natural hormone that could be the answer to your sleep problems: melatonin for sleep.
What is melatonin for sleep?
It is a natural hormone, known as the “sleep hormone” or “darkness hormone” produced by a tiny gland, the pineal gland, located inside your brain.
It keeps your circadian cycle, that 24-hour internal clock in your body, in good rhythm.
When it starts to get dark, you secrete more melatonin. It peaks in the middle of the night.
During the day, only a little is produced.
This way, it not only tells you when to wake up and go to sleep, but also helps you fall asleep faster and with better quality, allowing you to sleep deeply and for longer.
Why take a melatonin supplement?
Ideally, your body should produce all the melatonin you need for restful sleep.
However, there are factors that can decrease the natural production of this hormone:
- Age.
- Chronic stress.
- Using electronic devices at night.
- Have hypothyroidism.
- Cardiovascular diseases, cancer and others.
- Misalignment of schedules, such as working at night.
This is where melatonin supplements come in, a safe and effective way to replenish the levels of this hormone and say goodbye to sleepless nights. It is similar to the effects of magnesium for sleep.
By the way, melatonin deficiency not only causes sleep disorders, but also fatigue, depression and mental health problems. Keep this in mind.
Melatonin vs. sleeping pills?
Melatonin can be just as effective for getting a good night's sleep as prescription sleeping pills. But there's a world of difference in their effects.
Sleeping pills force your brain to “shut down” and cause side effects such as drowsiness, dry mouth, nausea, irregular heartbeat, weight changes, and addiction.
While melatonin acts naturally, synchronizing your internal clock and promoting a sleep more similar to the one you had when you were a child.
In short, melatonin is a natural stimulus to help you regain your natural sleep rhythm.
How to take melatonin safely and effectively?
The typical dose of melatonin ranges from 1 to 5 mg, taken 1 to 2 hours before going to sleep.
It is best to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you find what works best for you.
Although melatonin is generally well tolerated, some people may experience side effects, such as:
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Irritability
- Daytime sleepiness
- Short-term feelings of depression
- Stomach cramps
- Decreased libido
Remember that melatonin can be a great ally to combat insomnia and improve the quality of your sleep.
However, consult with your doctor to determine if it is right for you and to find the correct dosage. Sweet dreams!
Important: This content is for educational purposes only and should not be used as medical advice. If you have any health conditions, please consult your doctor.
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