Sleep is an essential activity the body requires to work effectively. Having a disrupted sleeping pattern can play havoc on one’s mental and physical wellbeing. Fortunately, there is a supplement proven to help with a better night’s rest.
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A key factor in how us humans sleep is the exposure of light and darkness being correctly regulated.
Exposure to light stimulates a nerve pathway from the retina in the eye to an area in the brain called the hypothalamus.
This then signals to other parts of the brain that controls hormones, body temperature and other functions that play a role in making a person feel sleepy or wide awake.
Taking a certain supplement aids in these functions working better and as such helps a person sleep better.
Melatonin is a hormone which tells the body that it is time to get some rest.
Melatonin has become a popular supplement among those who struggle to get their shut eye or those who wake up in the night.
Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland in the brain, but it is also found in areas such as the eyes, bone marrow and the gut.
The supplement has been dubbed the “sleep hormone” due to its ability to help a person fall asleep easier and better.
What the study says
In a study with the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, melatonin and how it helps improves a person’s sleep quality, morning alertness and combat insomnia was investigated.
The study noted: “Melatonin, secreted nocturnally by the pineal gland, is an endogenous sleep regulator.
“Impaired melatonin production and complaints on poor quality of sleep are common among the elderly.”
In the study, the effects of a three-week melatonin release versus a placebo treatment was assessed amongst 170 patients aged over 55.
The study concluded found a significant improvement in the quality of sleep and morning alertness amongst the melatonin group.
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The Mayo Clinic said: “The hormone melatonin plays a role in your natural sleep-wake cycle.
“Natural levels of melatonin in the blood are highest at night.
“Some research suggest that melatonin supplements might be helpful in treating sleep disorders, such as delayed sleep phase and providing some relief from insomnia and jet lag.
“Melatonin is generally safe for short-term use and unlike other sleep medications, with melatonin you are unlikely to become dependent.”
Other methods to get a better night’s rest
The NHS advised: “Keeping a regular sleeping pattern can help to promote a good night’s sleep.
“This programmes the brain and internal body clock to get used to a set routine.
“Most adults need between six and nine hours of sleep every night.
“By working out what time a person needs to wake up, they can set a regular bedtime schedule.
“It’s also important to try and wake up at the same time every day as this improves your sleep routine.”
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