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6 Myths about Melatonin Supplement Debunked

Published : Jan 07, 2022 2 mins read Updated On : Apr 17, 2024

A good night's sleep is crucial for overall health and well-being. It supports physical health by promoting immune function, hormone regulation, and repair of tissues and muscles. It also enhances cognitive function, memory consolidation, and emotional well-being, allowing for better focus, productivity, and mood regulation during waking hours.

As our life gets busier and unpredictable our sleep pattern goes for a toss. Late night work, traveling and spending too much time on the phone all contribute to a lack of sleep and irregular sleep pattern. One solution is to take a melatonin supplement to help you sleep faster. However, there are many myths surrounding melatonin and its use for faster sleep. In this blog we will debunk some of the major myths regarding melatonin supplements.

Myth 1 – Melatonin Supplements are sleeping pills

Melatonin supplements are not sleeping pills. Contrary to prescription sleep medications, melatonin doesn't directly make you fall asleep. Instead, it supplements naturally produced melatonin by the brain to manage sleep. When you take melatonin, it signals your brain to initiate its nightly sleep process, making it simpler for you to drift off rather than forcing you to sleep.

Myth 2 – Melatonin Supplements are addictive

Another popular myth about melatonin supplements is that regular use of melatonin leads to addiction or dependency. However, melatonin has non-addictive qualities. Melatonin functions as a therapeutic aid in regulating the body's circadian rhythm. But overdose of melatonin can have certain side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, irritability and anxiety.

Myth 3 – Melatonin supplements cause desensitization over some time

Extensive research indicates that there's no evidence of desensitization with long-term melatonin use. Essentially, melatonin acts as a naturally occurring substance in the body. When supplemented, it merely boosts production, assisting in maintaining the body's circadian rhythm.

Myth 4 – Melatonin supplements impact blood pressure

Despite doubts from many individuals regarding melatonin's effects on blood pressure whether it increases or decreases it. Studies have failed to establish any connection between melatonin and adverse impacts on blood pressure. There is no evidence suggesting that melatonin influences blood pressure in either direction.

Myth 5 – A higher dose of melatonin leads to better results

Melatonin is sold over-the-counter in strengths ranging from 1 to 10mg. Although a 10mg option exists, many individuals do not experience added advantages beyond 5mg. Beginning with a lower dosage, such as 3-5mg, is advisable to minimize potential adverse effects.

Myth 6 – Melatonin supplements need a doctor's prescription

Melatonin supplements are generally safe and can be consumed without any doctor’s prescription. However, if you are taking other medication that could interact with melatonin then it is best to consult a doctor before using a melatonin supplement.

Conclusion

Melatonin supplements are popular as sleep aid supplements. They help people sleep faster, regulate their sleep wake cycle and reduce the effects of jet lag and insomnia. However, there are some myths surrounding melatonin supplements that may deter people from using them. In this blog we have tried to debunk some major myths about melatonin supplements.

Soumil Vartak
Soumil Vartak
Fitness and Nutrition

Soumil is a health & wellbeing enthusiast whose passion is to explore new about fitness. He enjoys writing about health, fitness, nutrition and anything related to health. His technical knowledge o... Read More

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