Are you one of the countless individuals who toss and turn night after night, desperately searching for a restful sleep? You're not alone. In our fast-paced, technology-driven society, sleep problems have reached alarming levels. But what if I told you that the possible culprit behind your sleepless nights may be something unexpected - exposure to electromagnetic field (EMF)? Our continuous exposure to EMF radiation suppresses the body’s production of the natural sleep hormone Melatonin. This leaves us feeling sleep-deprived and struggling with insomnia. The consequences? We are experiencing a decline in overall well-being.
A recent study conducted in the United States in 2018 revealed a staggering fact: Americans now use double the amount of sleep aids compared to just a decade ago. Can you believe that? We're desperately seeking solutions to reclaim our precious slumber.
Sleep Disorders: Are Melatonin Supplements the Solution?
Melatonin supplements have emerged as a popular choice for combatting sleep disturbances. After all, melatonin is known as the "sleep hormone," responsible for regulating our biological clock and promoting healthy sleep patterns. However, there's something concerning about this seemingly harmless solution.
Melatonin is classified as a "nutritional supplement" by regulatory bodies like the FDA and Health Canada. What does this mean exactly? Well, it means there is no regulation on the manufacturing process of synthetic melatonin in labs.
The consequence of this lack of oversight becomes apparent when we consider that over-the-counter (OTC) melatonin products can contain significantly higher levels of active melatonin than our bodies actually need. This puts us at risk of unintentional overdoses without even realizing it.
Are there Melatonin Side Effects?
But wait, there's more. OTC melatonin products often come bundled with other substances that contribute to various side effects – from headaches and daytime sleepiness to nausea and dizziness. These potential adverse reactions raise concerns, especially when parents give these products to their children whose developing bodies are more vulnerable to chronic health risks.
Experts even suggest caution during puberty due to the potential suppression of testosterone and estrogen hormones. Furthermore, there isn't enough data on melatonin usage during pregnancy or nursing, so women in these stages must take precautionary measures.
It's essential to understand that while short-term, low-dose (1-3 mg) melatonin supplement use is considered safe and effective for managing issues like jet lag or circadian rhythm disruptions, long-term usage comes with a laundry list of side effects and health risks that can't be ignored.
Potential Consequences for Long-term Melatonin Usage
- Headaches: One of the most commonly reported side effects by melatonin users.
- Daytime sleepiness: Melatonin's sleep-inducing effect can extend into the daytime, leaving you feeling tired and groggy when you should be alert.
- Nausea and dizziness: Some individuals experience these uncomfortable symptoms when taking melatonin, especially after meals or when combined with alcohol.
- Vivid dreams or nightmares: Prepare yourself for an intense dream world if you decide to rely on melatonin.
- Stomach cramps: Reports suggest that specific individuals may experience stomach discomfort or cramps with melatonin use.
- Anxiety and depression: Mental health problems have been associated with melatonin intake.
- Dependency: If we become reliant on external melatonin in the long run, our body may decrease its own production of this essential hormone.
- Hormonal imbalances: Melatonin regulates other hormones so that excessive use can disrupt their delicate balance.
- Confusion and disorientation
- Behavioral and mood changes: Melatonin plays a role in irritability and behavioral changes.
- Low blood pressure: Melatonin can interact with medication for high blood pressure, potentially causing dangerously low levels.
- Anaphylaxis effect: In rare cases, melatonin can trigger a severe allergic reaction, necessitating emergency care.
- Disruption of immune functions: External melatonin may suppress our body's natural hormone production, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system.
- Insulin resistance and diabetes: Lowered levels of naturally produced melatonin due to supplementation may increase the risk of developing diabetes.
- Increased risk for cancer: While our body's own melatonin has strong anti-cancer properties, long-term usage of synthetic melatonin carries a higher risk for all types of cancer.
Melatonin Benefits vs Risks for Long-term Use
Now that we've explored the potential dangers associated with prolonged use of melatonin, it's important to note that short-term use can still benefit certain situations. If you work variable shifts, frequently experience jet lag, or find it difficult to fall asleep due to stress or temporary disruptions, using melatonin temporarily can help reset your sleep patterns.
However, when it comes to chronic sleep deprivation and insomnia, relying solely on long-term use of melatonin is not advised. Instead, it's crucial to consider alternative solutions that address the root causes of your sleep issues.
Don't let chronic sleep issues take over your life. Take control by being aware of the potential health risks associated with prolonged use of melatonin and explore different approaches for achieving a restful night's sleep. Your long-term health and well-being are worth prioritizing!
References:
Trends in Use of Melatonin Supplements Among US Adults, 1999-2018
National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)Trusted Source,
Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA)Trusted Source
Melatonin Secretion and the Incidence of Type 2 Diabetes
Check out our blog - What You Should Know About Melatonin
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