Melatonin, or sleep hormone, is found in virtually all living organisms on the planet. In the human body, a small hormonal organ is involved in the production of this important substance – the pineal gland (pineal gland), which is located between the cerebral hemispheres. A unique hormone is produced only in the dark, mainly when a person is immersed in a phase of deep sleep.
Properties of melatonin
The most important function of melatonin is to regulate sleep and wakefulness. Medicines containing melanin should definitely be in the medicine cabinet of those who often move around the world, respectively, change time zones. It is melatonin that will establish a normal sleep and wakefulness regime, and protect against insomnia.
It has been proven that melatonin is one of the strongest natural antioxidants that slow down the aging process and the development of malignant cells.
Functions of melatonin
The hormone melatonin has an immunostimulating effect, regulating the activity of the most important organ – the thyroid gland. It also normalizes blood pressure levels and is actively involved in the functioning of brain cells.
In middle age and old age, the level of natural melatonin decreases, which is why it is then that many begin to feel anxiety and apathy, which are not far from serious stress. It is necessary to check the level of melatonin in time and take measures – to establish sleep, for this you may need an additional intake of melatonin.
Melatonin and excess weight
The study of melatonin has not yet been completed; from the latest developments, scientists have concluded that melatonin has a positive effect on the process of losing weight. It has long been known that the less a person sleeps, the more difficult it is for him to deal with extra pounds. It turns out that there is now a scientific explanation for this. The fact is that melatonin, which, as we remember, is synthesized during sleep, stimulates the appearance in the body of the so-called beige fat. Beige fat is a special type of fat cells that burn calories. It’s a paradox, but it’s true.
Also, melatonin plays an important role in increasing the thermogenic effect from sports activities, plus – during sleep, muscle tissue is restored, which is an important part of the process of fighting excess weight.
Considering that the need for a healthy body in melatonin is about 3 mg per day, you need to monitor and regulate its amount. Lack of melatonin can lead to prolonged depression and loss of orientation in time – sleep and wakefulness will be disrupted. Special medications will help to cope with such a problem. Melatonin is sold in pharmacies in the form of Melaxen, Apik-melatonin, Vita-melatonin, etc. And in sports stores in the form of Melatonin from various companies (such as Optimum Nutrition, NOW, 4Ever Fit, etc.). Moreover, in sports stores it turns out cheaper.
Melatonin tablets and its effects on the body
Melatonin tablets come in 3-5 mg. Take 1 tablet 30 minutes before bedtime. The initial dosage of melatonin is 1–2 mg per day. In the first 2-3 days, it is necessary to check the tolerability of the drug. Further, the dosage can be increased to 5 mg per day.
Strong light should be avoided after taking melatonin. Melatonin is not recommended for drivers at work, women wishing to become pregnant (due to its weak contraceptive effect), people taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, beta-blockers, drugs that depress the central nervous system. The first few melatonin doses can be very colorful, unrealistic dreams, you may not get enough sleep – it will pass. Melatonin also has contraindications, which are described in the instructions.