{"id":9280,"date":"2022-02-15T19:59:26","date_gmt":"2022-02-15T19:59:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/jamaicahospital.org\/newsletter\/?p=9280"},"modified":"2022-02-15T20:08:35","modified_gmt":"2022-02-15T20:08:35","slug":"melatonin-sleep-aids-risks-and-benefits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/jamaicahospital.org\/newsletter\/melatonin-sleep-aids-risks-and-benefits\/","title":{"rendered":"Melatonin Sleep Aids: Risks and Benefits"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"\"<\/a>The use of melatonin sleep aids has grown in popularity.\u00a0 Although taking these supplements for short-term use and in accordance with a doctor\u2019s guidance is generally safe- misusing them can lead to harmful health effects.<\/p>\n

Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally produced by our bodies to help regulate our sleep-wake cycles.\u00a0 However, some people may choose to take lab-made melatonin as supplements because their bodies do not produce enough of the hormone, or they are having difficulty falling asleep or staying awake.<\/p>\n

When taken safely, melatonin can offer multiple health benefits.\u00a0 Research suggests that melatonin supplements may help provide relief from several sleep problems such as insomnia, jet lag or shift work sleep disorder.<\/p>\n

Melatonin supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA); therefore, there is not much information available on safe or best dosages. \u00a0This is why it is highly advised to consult a physician before using melatonin due to the risk of developing potential side effects such as:<\/p>\n