Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone found in all mammals. Melatonin helps signal the brain that it is time for sleep.
Melatonin is produced in a small endocrine gland known as the pineal gland. This gland is located in the brain and is responsible for producing melatonin and then distributing it throughout the body via the bloodstream.
The production of melatonin is part of what signals the human body that it is time for rest and sleep. This, in turn, is what helps to regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle known as the circadian rhythm.
Age causes a melatonin shortage
Unfortunately, as we age the natural production of slaappillen melatonine by the body declines dramatically. Children and teenagers have much more of this hormone and as such suffer from far fewer sleep disturbances.
The declining rates of melatonin in the body can lead to a variety of sleep related issues. These include middle of the night wakefulness, episodes of insomnia, difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep and many other variations.
Jet lag and insomnia
Insomnia affects an increasingly large amount of people. Fortunately, melatonin for insomnia is an extremely safe and effective treatment for many.
Melatonin has been conclusively shown to help with those suffering from jetlag. It has been shown to restore balance to sleep cycles and to help with the adjustment to a different time zone.
Melatonin supplementation
Melatonin supplementation has also been used to treat other forms of insomnia. In particular it is helpful for those who have difficulty falling asleep. Some circadian rhythm disorders can be greatly helped with the use of melatonin.
Melatonin has a relaxing effect on the body and is also therefore useful for helping to reduce anxiety which may lead to insomnia.
Taking melatonin sleep aid before bed can help induce sleep and improve sleep quality without the negative side-effects associated with prescription sleep medication. Melatonin pills will not leave you feeling drowsy or groggy the next day.
Melatonin – The Video
Check out this YouTube video on Melatonin.