Melatonin is a hormone that the body produces normally. Because its production is stimulated by darkness and reduced by light conditions, it has been studied as a part of and contributor to an individual's sleep cycle. Melatonin has become one of the most used supplements on the market and can provide many benefits. Consulting with a sleep doctor like Dr. Richard Bogan, Dr. Laura Herpel, Dr. McLain, or Dr. Melissa Hummel at Bogan Sleep Consultants in Columbia, SC, can help you understand melatonin and review whether this supplement is a good option for you.
When Melatonin is a Good Choice
As a natural hormone, melatonin is able to facilitate the transition from being awake to sleep. In certain conditions or as some people age, supplementing the natural levels of melatonin can help sleep practices. If someone is experiencing changes like those that can happen while traveling or with adjustments in day-to-day sleep schedules, melatonin can help individuals fall asleep more easily.
There has not been sufficient data to determine the success of melatonin in helping with long-term sleep conditions, like insomnia or other difficulties related to misaligned circadian rhythms. Understanding the underlying cause of any sleep difficulties that you are having should be the basis for any course of treatment, including supplements. By discussing your sleep issues with the sleep doctors at Bogan Sleep Consultants in Columbia, SC, you can explore different options and determine if melatonin might help you sleep.
Choosing Melatonin
As a supplement, melatonin is not regulated in the same way that pharmaceuticals are. You should only buy supplements from reputable sources, and be cautious about supplements that use melatonin as part of a sleep aid containing numerous ingredients. There is not currently sufficient research available on the interactions between melatonin and other supplements.
You should also speak to your physician or sleep doctor about the proper dosage of melatonin to take for your body weight. Melatonin is available in tablets measured in milligrams (mg), and a 3 mg dose is typically sufficient for an adult. There has been an increased interest in melatonin as a sleep aid for children. While there are anecdotal stories of melatonin producing better sleep for children, there is no research on this subject.
While there are no known serious side effects associated with melatonin, involving your sleep doctor is important. Contact Bogan Sleep Consultants in Columbia, SC, with any sleep concerns, and let Dr. Bogan, Dr. Herpel, Dr. McLain, or Dr. Hummel determine if melatonin is right for you. Call (803) 251-3093 to schedule an appointment today and take steps toward a better night's sleep.
