Melatonin and Sleep Disorders - Can it Help?

Melatonin supplements or remedies are recognized as a natural sleeping aid that assists the body to fall asleep by regulating its sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is naturally occurring in the body as it is secreted by the pineal gland which is a pea-sized structure located in middle of the brain. When nighttime comes our eyes register the change in light and the pineal gland secretes melatonin in order to regulate our sleep-wake cycle so that we fall asleep. When an individual gets older this cycle is interrupted as the amount of melatonin produced by the pineal gland lessens. This may explain why older individuals have more difficulty sleeping or falling asleep. Some studies have shown there to be a link between lower levels of melatonin and sleep disorders. In order to provide themselves with relief from a sleeping disorder many people take melatonin remedies as a natural sleep aid, particularly when they are experiencing a short term sleep disorder such as jet lag or short term insomnia. More serious sleep disorders such as secondary insomnia and sleep apnea usually require the assistance of your health care provider in order to aid in alleviating the symptoms.

Other Information about Melatonin

As mentioned above some studies suggest that melatonin remedies can ease jet lag as well as assist individuals who are experiencing short term insomnia.  It has shown to be helpful to individuals in other ways including the reduction of free radicals in the body given that it may have anti-oxidant properties. The research continues on the benefits of this sleep aids effect on the body particularly on the relief aspects of melatonin and sleep disorder.

See Also: Insomnia and Sleep Problems and Melatonin Dosage