Originally Posted by Aquanina
O...where did you get that info about melatonin? I don't believe it's entirely accurate. I know melatonin helps you get to sleep faster, but as far as staying asleep or the quality of sleep, I don't think melatonin has any effect. Especially when taken before bed. It is metabolized quickly and wouldn't effect how long you are asleep unless it is extended release.
Studies suggest that melatonin supplements may help people with disrupted circadian rhythms (such as people with jet lag or those who work the night shift) and those with low melatonin levels (such as some seniors and people with schizophrenia) to sleep better. A review of clinical studies suggests that melatonin supplements may help prevent jet lag, particularly in people who cross five or more time zones.
A few clinical studies suggest that when taken for short periods of time (days to weeks) melatonin is more effective than a placebo in reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, increasing the number of sleeping hours, and boosting daytime alertness.
Melatonin
From what I can see, there are a few conflicting reports on whether or not (and how well) melatonin affects the sleep/wake cycles - not just for helping you fall asleep, but for regulating how long you sleep as well. I'll look into it more.
[Edit]
I really can't believe how vague a lot of the info on melatonin is. There is really much less information on melatonin online than I figured there would be. But, what, I've been able to discern is that it regulates both when you go to sleep and when you wake up, but your waking up is due - in part - to a sequential decrease in natural melatonin production, within the body. Melatonin, as a supplement, dissipates after a short period. So I apologize for the misinformation.
|
|
Bookmarks