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What is Melatonin?
- This supplement has overwhelmed the media in the last few years. Studies have shown that
it has an effect on immunity along with antioxidant properties. This amazing hormone works
by regulating the internal clock that is associated with successfully bringing sleep to
the body without suppressing or delaying sleep.
Could Melatonin increase our lifespan?
- As Melatonin is excreted by the pea-sized gland called the pineal gland it has a great
influence on our well being, health, and longevity. Russel J. Reiter talks about how
Melatonin is a very potent hydroxyl radical scavenger. He says that free radicals
especially the hydroxyl radical, can be extremely damaging to macromolecules in cells.
Reiter also adds that Melatonin continues to perform as well as or better than any other
antioxidant when tested in any conceivable body system that could be assembled.
- While evaluating the Melatonin hormone it has been discovered that it has the ability to
permeate any cell in any part of the body. This is quite amazing considering most
antioxidants focus on certain pars of certain cells in the body. Some studies have also
indicated that Melatonin also stimulates the enzyme glutathione peroxidase which is also a
powerful antioxidant. Think about it, the natural hormone that protects body even while we
sleep.
Does Melatonin help with the immune system?
- Lets look at the thymus gland, which is the key gland for our body’s immune system.
It is documented that this gland starts shrinking at the young age of five. This gland
continues to shrink until five percent of this remains around the age of 80.
Numerous studies reveal that Melatonin supplements can restore Thymus gland function,
even causing it to regrow, and rev up Immune function by increasing the production of
T-cells,
so Important to our natural defenses (Scheer, 52).
Is Melatonin safe for everyone?
Well, although there has not been many reports of side effects, some
cautions might need to be taken.
- Do not take along with other medications without advising your health-care practitioner.
- Some of the lowest amounts of Melatonin can be effective.
- If you have any medical conditions it is also suggested to consult your health-care
practitioner.
- This hormone is not suggested for children or individuals under the age of 20.
- Scheer, James. (November1997). "The Promise of Melatonin", an
article of Better Nutrition. pp 52-53.
- Balch, James F.,M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C. (1997). Prescription
for Nutritional Healing, 2nd Edition. pp 44-45.
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