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Anyone who has experienced a rough night ofsleepknows exactly how destabilizing it can be.
Anastasiia Krivenok
But is it safe to take regularly?
And, is melatonin addictive if taken long term?
Read on to find out what the experts say.
Melatonin is an endogenous hormone that is produced in the brain.
Ultimately, melatonin influencesthe circadian rhythm.
The ability for melatonin to regulate these processes is essential for maintaining healthy sleep patterns.
How does melatonin work?
It simply supports the signal for the brain, telling it when its time for sleep to begin.
This is the reason melatonin also works particularly well forjet lag.
The strongest rhythm generator for us humans is light, says Heidbreder.
If the light is no longer in tune with our internal clock, taking melatonin can help with synchronization.
Is melatonin addictive?
There is no evidence to date that melatonin is addictive.
In general, melatonin is considered safe when used appropriately.
Recurring rituals promote falling asleep.
Humans are creatures of habitthats why bedtime stories work so well with children.
To minimize risks, following recommended dosages and timing is essential, Nunez says.
To ensure you are reaping melatonins benefits, avoid making your supplement decision on your own.
As the third pillar of healthalongside nutrition and exercisesleep is too important to ignore, says Nunez.
