This amazing hormone is naturally produced by the body. Read on to know of its theraputic benefits to your world & well being.
Melatonin is produced in the pineal gland, from the amino acid tryptophan. This is why turkey is claimed to make people sleepy after a Thanksgiving meal (not to mention our overly peeked glucose levels). Other rich sources of the amino acid tryptophan are legumes, soybeans, & nuts.
Melatonin is stimulated by darkness and supressed by light. If your body is functioning optimally, in the eve, your sleep stages/circadian rhythm should be primed by the highest levels of melatonin in the blood. Note: Do not sleep with lights or TV on. This can cause interupted sleep stages.
Melatonin supplementation has been used for a variety of medical conditions, predominatly sleep issues. Sleep is restorative. When levels of melatonin are hindered due to an array of factors (i.e. hormonal imbalances, menopause, stress, poor sleep conditions, pain), one can become sleep deprived. This can be a dangerous health concern. If it endures over time, many problems can arise such as hypertension and cell mutations.
Melatonin is a natural antioxidant! This means it repairs cells. There are well over 100 lab studies on the antioxidant properties of melatonin. It has been shown to combat stress and internal oxidative damage to tissues. * Note- It is important to state upfront that in about 10 percent of the people followed thus far in studies of the hormone, high doses of melatonin (5mg +)have caused insomnia and nightmares rather than peaceful sleep.
I keep the liquid spray form of Melatonin on hand. I administer this natural spray when I have gone too many days without adequate sleep (staying awake with the full moon, catering parties/wine tastings, cleaning till 12am because I have the fever, and of course, what I bring home with me from work). The liquid form is fast acting. I only spritz the dosage of 1.5mg. Within 30 minutes my eyes are heavy, my shoulders have dropped, and I am ready to let go of my current thought or project. Check out your local pharmacy/Rite Aid for safe supplement.
Sleep with Peace.
~ Natural Health Consultant
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