Results from a recent study show that about 35 percent of people suffer from insomnia, use of Melatonin can improve sleep quality
Professional estimates say that about 35 percent of people worldwide suffer from insomnia, and many use pharmaceutical sleep medications, which cause long-term addiction and include numerous side effects.
The level of the hormone melatonin, which is secreted in the brain by a small pea-sized gland – the pineal gland, is extremely important for easier falling asleep and a more sound sleep. It is a hormone that the brain produces at night. It helps regulate the circadian rhythm (the 24-hour “internal clock”) and sleep.
Exposure to light at night can block melatonin production.
Melatonin levels can be increased naturally and through foods that contain the amino acid tryptophan, which is converted to melatonin in the body. In that sense, experts recommend bananas, oatmeal, pineapple, barley, rice,a pumpkin seeds, almonds, walnuts and cherries.
Research shows that melatonin is also a very useful dietary supplement. Namely, it can help with certain conditions, such as disturbance of the sleep-wake phase, fragile sleep in children, anxiety before and after surgery, etc.
But melatonin should not be taken by people with epilepsy and those using anticoagulants. Melatonin is not recommended for people with dementia. Consultation with a doctor or pharmacist is also advised.
Side effects may include headache, dizziness and agitation.
