Melatonin is a natural substance found in the body that regulates the sleep cycle. Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland in the brain. It helps regulate other hormones as well, and maintains the body’s circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm is an internal 24 hour clock that plays a critical role in when we fall asleep and when we wake up. When it is dark, your body produces more melatonin; when it is light, the production of melatonin drops.
Melatonin also helps control the timing and release of female reproductive hormones. Some researchers also believe that melatonin levels may be related to aging. Young children have the highest levels of nighttime melatonin. Researchers believe these levels drop as we age. Melatonin has strong antioxident effects. Preliminary evidence suggests that it may help strengthen the immune system.
It is suggested that when necessary, use melatonin to reset your body clock when you experience jet lag, by taking it at the appropriate time to sleep in your time zone, even if you are not tired yet. Set aside enough time for a full night’s sleep before taking any melatonin.
It is important to purchase synthetic melatonin rather than animal-extracted melatonin, which may contain unwanted animal proteins and possible viruses. We at www.secretserendipity.com appreciate the benefits of the occasional use of melatonin.