What is Melatonin: Benefits, Uses, Side Effects, and Dosage
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland which is located in centre of our brain. It plays a vital role in helping one fall asleep by controlling and regulating the sleep-wake cycle & the circadian rhythm. The hormone is produced in response to dark environment. People with insomnia, jet lag issues, and shift work disorder fall into this group. This blog discusses melatonin, its benefits, dosage, side effects, and more.
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland which is located in centre of our brain. It plays a vital role in helping one fall asleep by controlling and regulating the sleep-wake cycle & the circadian rhythm. The hormone is produced in response to dark environment. People with insomnia, jet lag issues, and shift work disorder fall into this group. This blog discusses melatonin, its benefits, dosage, side effects, and more.
The following significant benefits are associated with melatonin —
This hormone plays a leading role in promoting sleep and inhibiting the wake-up signals your brain sends. It manages and maintains your body’s internal clock or circadian rhythm, making it easy to fall asleep and wake up fresh the next day. In other words, this hormone can give you deep, restful sleep and complete relaxation.
The antioxidant properties of melatonin can control the cellular damage caused by free radicals. Damage due to free radicals and the consequent oxidative stress are the main culprits behind ageing process. Therefore, this hormonal supplement may keep you looking younger for several years.
Studies show that the melatonin hormone, rich in antioxidants, can nourish your eyesight and prevent cellular damage in the eyes, keeping age-related eye diseases like macular degeneration and glaucoma at bay.
Scientific evidence shows melatonin as a remedy for GERD or gastroesophageal reflux disease. In one of the scientific research projects, it was evident that people who took melatonin experienced fewer heartburns and upper abdominal pain episodes triggered by GERD.
Apart from your brain, your gut also produces melatonin. Thus, many researchers believe in the power of this hormone to improve your digestive health. A steady supply of melatonin has been linked with treating issues of the gut, like irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion, constipation, and bloating.
Lack of exposure to sunlight may often lead to the onset of SAD or seasonal affective disorder in some people. This phenomenon is widespread in winter months and can cause depressive thoughts. Researchers believe that melatonin could relieve the sufferers of this disorder by regulating body's response to darknet or dim light. Under the effect of this hormone, individuals suffering from seasonal affective disorder can lift their moods.
Studies show that melatonin can regulate blood pressure and keep your heart healthy. Its antioxidant properties can reduce inflammation within the body and lower the risk of heart attacks.
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