Melatonin is the body's natural sleep substance. Human beings produce five times more melatonin at night than during the day. Researchers have determined that when the sun sets, the body's melatonin level begins to rise. At dawn, the body's melatonin level begins to drop again. The pineal gland is involved in the production of melatonin in the body and aids in the regulation of the wake-sleep cycle.
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Unfortunately, it seems that our bodies produce less melatonin with age. The maximum levels are found before the body reaches puberty, from then on steadily declining throughout adulthood. Many people have reported lighter sleep patterns when they reach middle age. Could this be because of less melatonin production at night? Scientists have hypothesized that the cells within the pineal gland decrease with age, creating a shortage of melatonin. Even though melatonin is usually recommended for those with trouble falling asleep (not those who have trouble STAYING asleep), or for those with jet lag, SAD, and some depressive and neurological disorders, and even cancer, it is the antioxidant abilities that interest the anti-aging enthusiasts. Those abilities are experienced with very low doses, usually .3 mg. to 1.5 mg. |
Melatonin also traps, deactivates and destroys free radicals, becoming a powerful anti-oxidant. Whereas vitamin C, E and beta carotene perform similar functions in specific parts of certain cells, melatonin has been known to permeate any cell in the body. Dr. R. Reiter, associated with the University of Texas, San Antonio, has investigated melatonin and its effects for over 30 years and he believes melatonin is the most powerful non-enzyme scavenger of free radicals! Free radicals are the major cause of aging and age related diseases.
Melatonin levels are not well tested by blood or saliva analysis. Although not all doctors are so conservative, melatonin is usually considered good therapy for the anti-oxidant effects in people 60 or over, using low doses, unless difficulty getting to sleep is encountered, in which case the dosage may be as high as 10 mgs.
Because melatonin is a hormone, those taking oral doses should not exceed the recommended dose suggested on any nutritional label unless they have been specifically instructed to do so by a qualified physician. Lactating mothers and any person suffering from an auto immune disease, depressive disorders should seek the direction of a health care professional for advice.
It is usually best to take melatonin 1/2 hour before bedtime, with minimal exposure of the eyes to light. The sublingual sprays work best and quickest. Some melatonin-sensitive people may experience daytime drowsiness with the administration of oral melatonin.
A final word of warning: Over dosage is known to cause morning drowsiness. Do not operate machinery, drive or engage in any activity that requires full cognitive awareness while taking this medicine.
the end
Dr John H Maher
Ed., "Longevity News"
www.Rxforwellness.com
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Nick Nilsson is Vice-President of the online personal training company BetterU, Inc. He has a degree in Physical Education and Psychology and has been inventing new training techniques for more than 16 years. Nick is the author of a number of bodybuilding eBooks including "Metabolic Surge - Rapid Fat Loss," "The Best Exercises You've Never Heard Of," "Gluteus to the Maximus - Build a Bigger Butt NOW!" and "The Best Abdominal Exercises You've Never Heard Of". Click HERE for more strength training information