Melatonin is a hormone, also known as N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine,
it is a naturally occurring compound found in humans, animals, microbes
and plants. In animals and humans, melatonin levels vary during the
daily cycle. It is intimately involved in regulating the sleeping and
waking cycles. It is sometimes prescribed by doctors for patients with
sleep problems. However, in some cases it is not suitable.
In fact, a Spanish study concluded that melatonin is better at getting people to sleep than other medications.
Melatonin is also an antioxidant.
Among mammals, melatonin is secreted into the body by the pineal gland from the amino acid tryptophan. It is also known as the "hormone of darkness" because it is secreted when it is dark. Highest levels of melatonin usually occur in humans at bedtime.
A study in the University of Granada, Spain proved that melatonin helps in controlling weight gain, even if the patient does not eat less. It was found to improve the blood lipid profile by reducing triglycerides, rasing HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) and lowering LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels.
Japanese research found that giving melatonin to women who are trying to get pregnant with IVF (in vitro fertilization) helps improve the quality of the egg and doubles the IVF success rate. Poor egg quality is a major cause of female infertility.
According to Medilexicon's medical dictionary, Melatonin is:
The following side effects have been associated with melatonin supplements:
Melatonin, if prescribed, is usually done so for short periods. Some experts say that treatment for longer than two months might be harmful. Not all experts agree with this.
People taking melatonin should be careful when driving or operating heavy machinery.
In fact, a Spanish study concluded that melatonin is better at getting people to sleep than other medications.
Melatonin is also an antioxidant.
Among mammals, melatonin is secreted into the body by the pineal gland from the amino acid tryptophan. It is also known as the "hormone of darkness" because it is secreted when it is dark. Highest levels of melatonin usually occur in humans at bedtime.
A study in the University of Granada, Spain proved that melatonin helps in controlling weight gain, even if the patient does not eat less. It was found to improve the blood lipid profile by reducing triglycerides, rasing HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) and lowering LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels.
Japanese research found that giving melatonin to women who are trying to get pregnant with IVF (in vitro fertilization) helps improve the quality of the egg and doubles the IVF success rate. Poor egg quality is a major cause of female infertility.
According to Medilexicon's medical dictionary, Melatonin is:
"A substance formed by the mammalian pineal gland, which appears to depress gonadal function in mammals and causes contraction of amphibian melanophores; a precursor is serotonin. Melatonin is rapidly metabolized and is taken up by all tissues. It is involved in circadian rhythms."
The following side effects have been associated with melatonin supplements:
- Confusion
- Discomfort in the abdomen
- Headaches
- Nightmares
- Sleepiness during the day
- Sleepwalking
Melatonin, if prescribed, is usually done so for short periods. Some experts say that treatment for longer than two months might be harmful. Not all experts agree with this.
People taking melatonin should be careful when driving or operating heavy machinery.
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