A healthy dose of melatonin is often beneficial for individuals who struggle with sleep deprivation. However, not many people are aware of its side effects. Melatonin is a hormone that helps balance sleep-wake cycles and is commonly used as a sleep aid. While it is generally safe, it is essential to be aware of its potential drawbacks. Therefore, it is crucial to know the positive and negative effects of this hormone before taking it. Here’s everything you need to know about Melatonin.
Melatonin: what does it do?
Melatonin is a hormone and dietary addendum that became popular for its ability to induce sleep. It’s often referred to as the ‘sleep hormone’ because it plays a vital part in handling our sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is inherently built by the pineal gland in retort to darkness. A growth in melatonin levels during the dark signals to our bodies that it is time to relax and get ready for bedtime.
In some cases, this natural process cannot take place due to factors like jet lag, shift work, or a busy lifestyle. Melatonin supplements can help reset internal clocks and promote better sleep by providing a synthetic version of this hormone. Here are some Melatonin-related side effects you may encounter.
Feeling dizzy
It’s important to note that certain medications may cause dizziness and feelings of drowsiness. For instance, after taking a dose of melatonin, you may feel a bit tired and ready for bed. However, some people may experience dizziness after taking melatonin, which can be quite troublesome and may interfere with getting a good night’s slumber. This side effect is more common in people who are prone to lightheadedness or dizziness in general, so it’s important to be aware of this possible issue before taking melatonin.
Feeling nauseated
It’s not unusual to experience a nauseated stomach while trying to gain some sleep. This can be a side effect of taking Melatonin. Along with headaches and dizziness, the exact cause of melatonin-induced queasiness is not fully comprehended. However, it is believed to be connected to how melatonin intrudes into the digestive system. If you feel nauseated after taking melatonin, try consuming it with a small snack or meal.
Having a headache
Have you ever taken a melatonin pill to help you sleep and ended up with a headache instead? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Headaches are an ordinary side effect of melatonin use. Although the exact reason for this is not fully understood, it is believed to be linked to how melatonin affects the blood vessels in the brain. If you are encountering headaches after taking melatonin, it is recommended that you talk to your physician to explore alternative solutions.
Drowsiness during the day
Everyone knows how ironic it is to wake up groggy after taking a sleep aid. Melatonin supplements may also cause daytime drowsiness for some people. The effects of melatonin, although usually transient, can sometimes linger into the following day, causing you to feel less refreshed. The dosage of melatonin may need to be reconsidered if you experience persistent daytime sleepiness.
TRENDING | Insufficient sleep can increase diabetes risk in women; Study
