Melatonin is a natural hormone that regulates the human biological clock. Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland, located within the brain. Levels of melatonin in the body fluctuate with the cycles of night and day. The highest melatonin levels are found at night. Melatonin is present in foods only in trace amounts.

Normally, the body secretes melatonin for several hours per night. Studies using timed-release melatonin for insomnia have reported good results. Melatonin should not be taken during the day.‡

Adults with insomnia have been shown to have lower melatonin levels. Frequent travelers and shift workers are also likely to benefit from melatonin for the resynchronization of their sleep schedules, though a melatonin “deficiency” as such does not exist for these people. Patients with cardiovascular disease have been reported to have low melatonin levels, but whether this abnormality increases the risk of cardiovascular disease or whether cardiovascular disease leads to the low melatonin level is not yet known. People with schizophrenia were found to have low melatonin output and experienced significantly improved sleep following melatonin replacement supplementation.‡

Synthesis of melatonin from the amino acid tryptophan can be decreased by the aging process. Melatonin is a potent antioxidant. Adequate melatonin levels have been reported to be a positive factor for cardiovascular, neuroendocrine, and bone health.‡

‡ These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
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