The sleep-promoting supplement has exploded in popularity.
But can you rely on it to help you sleep every night?
One-third of adults don’t get enough sleep regularly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
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That figure is only expected to rise as pandemic and other stresses have mounted since 2020.
We spoke to the experts for answers.
What Is Melatonin?
Just like sleep, melatonin impacts the entire body, Weiss adds.
The hormone has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
“Many studies suggest melatonin plays a role in mental, cognitive and cardiovascular health,” she says.
As a result, supplement companies have formulated melatonin to help fill in the gaps.
“Supplements, including melatonin, are not regulated as closely as food products,” Tamburello says.
“Adding an extra dose of melatonin will delay your circadian rhythm.
According to the Mayo Clinic, common side effects of melatonin include headache, dizziness, nausea and drowsiness.
However, for people experiencing jet lag and shift work, sleep hygiene alone may not be effective.
