What is Melatonin and what source does it come from?

Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pineal gland that plays a role in the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle. It is secreted by the pineal gland after your body senses the fall of darkness at the end of each day, and keeps your body synchronized with the rhythms of day and night. It is also a powerful antioxidant that supports immune system function. As we age, Melatonin levels decline, so supplementation is necessary to provide optimal levels of this important hormone. Scientists believe this reduction is the reason why older adults have more trouble sleeping than younger people. LifeSource Nutrition’s Melatonin is a synthetic dietary supplement. Natural Melatonin is normally derived from animal pineal tissue, but concerns have arisen over the survival of unwanted microbes during the manufacturing process. LifeSource Nutrition would rather be cautious, so we only offer the safe, synthetic form of this nutrient.

Why take it?

Studies suggest that... supplements can hasten sleep and ease jet lag, without the hazards or side effects of prescription sleeping pills." Melatonin may have many other uses and has been reported to make people feel better, strengthen the immune system, and reduce free radicals in the body. Current research is underway to determine Melatonin's effect as an anti-oxidant, immno-modulator in cancer, delayed sleep-phase disorders, and jet lag. Tests are still under way so there is much to still be learned about Melatonin and its effects on the human body.

Who benefits the most?

Travelers and people suffering from mild sleep disorders. According to Newsweek, a typical comment from discussion groups on the Internet is, "'Folks, I've tried Melatonin and it's great. It has ...restored my sleep cycle, given me lots of energy.'"

Are there any side effects?

According to one report, "10 percent of the users said the hormone did nothing for them, and another 10 percent complained of side effects such as nightmares, headaches, morning grogginess, mild depression, and low sex drive. In past studies, researchers have given people up to 600 to 3,000 times the usual doses - without causing any toxicity."

What additional benefits are there and how reliable are these claims?

"In test-tube and animal experiments, researchers have found that it protects cells, strengthens the immune system and slows the growth of some tumors." Tests with laboratory mice suggest that Melatonin might also reduce the effects of aging - but remember, these results are very preliminary. "...Some experts are appalled to see so many people toying with such a potent hormone. One concern is that high doses, while causing no immediate harm, could have unknown long-term effects. 'Even one milligram, the smallest commercially available dose, is at least three times higher than the normal amount in the body.'"

Should certain people avoid it?

Yes. "Those include women who are pregnant or nursing (since no one knows how excessive exposure to the hormone might affect a fetus or infant); people with severe allergies or autoimmune diseases (Melatonin could exacerbate such conditions by stimulating the immune system); people with immune-system cancers such as lymphoma or leukemia (for the same reason), and healthy children (who already produce it in abundance). Women trying to conceive should also think twice about taking the hormone, since high doses can act as a contraceptive." As with any substance introduced into your body, if you have a medical condition you should always consult your physician first before taking Melatonin.

Will Melatonin extend my lifespan?

There are no human studies to support this contention. In tests on both rats and mice Melatonin caused a significant 20% increase in their lifespan. If Melatonin does allow you to live longer and healthier it could do so because Melatonin may reduce free radical damage; stimulate an aging immune system; protect the cardiovascular system; preserve a youthful circadian rhythm; stimulate the production of growth hormone.

Will Melatonin enhance my sex life?

There is no evidence to support this claim as it relates to humans. However, a 1995 rodent study suggests that taking small amounts of Melatonin on a regular basis may prevent the age-related decline in testosterone levels, allowing men to be more active sexually in their later years.

Is Melatonin safe?

Melatonin is one of the least toxic substances known. People have taken as much as 6 grams (600 to 3000 times the normal dosage) of the substance in carefully monitored studies with no sign of toxicity. Only four complaints regarding Melatonin have been report to the FDA (USA's Food and Drug Administration). The only consistent side effect of high doses has been drowsiness and a slower reaction time. In the most extensive clinical trial to date a high dose of 75 milligrams of Melatonin per day was given to 1400 women in the Netherlands for up to four years with no ill effects. The FDA reports that in the more than two years Melatonin has been available for sale over-the-counter in the United States, no alarming side effects have been reported.