Some of the most common sleep aids and vitamin supplements found over the counter contain melatonin. Others, such as zzzQuil or Unisom, both popular OTC options, can cause grogginess and other unwanted side effects well into the next day. Generally, melatonin is considered safe and does not typically cause next-day fatigue, but it is possible to take too much of it.
Melatonin is created naturally by the body, but can also be consumed in other forms. It helps in regulating the body’s circadian rhythms. The brain releases melatonin in response to darkness, peaking at night. However, we produce less melatonin as we get older, which is one of the reasons we lose quality sleep as we age. Melatonin used in supplements can be derived from animals or microorganisms, but are most often synthetic in nature. It is typically recommended that melatonin supplements—and other sleep aids—be taken short-term.
Even though melatonin is usually considered safer than other sedative medications, and there is no significant evidence that taking too much can result in an “overdose,” serious side effects can occur when it is mixed with other substances or medications. Fortunately, there is Sip2Sleep®, an organic sleep aid that has just two ingredients: Montmorency tart cherry extract for sleep benefits and Venetron® to reduce anxiety. If you’ve been counting on melatonin or other sleep supplements to get the ZZZ’s you need, it might be time to make the switch to a drinkable solution.
Let’s take a closer look at why you might want to skip the melatonin tonight.
Melatonin Meltdown
First, know that the possible adverse effects of melatonin are minimal. Those who “overdose” usually report nausea, drowsiness, or a headache. However, when taken in recommended doses, this is unlikely to occur. Children who are given too much melatonin may experience tiredness, an upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea. Parents have increasingly been giving children melatonin in recent years because they think it is a safe way to encourage sleep—but some studies have shown that melatonin supplements can interfere with a growing brain’s ability to produce its own. The CDC states that use of melatonin in children increased 503 percent in the last 10 years. Very young children can experience serious adverse reactions from melatonin, with 4,555 children requiring medical intervention due to melatonin overuse in the last decade.
In rare cases, HealthNews reports that adults who take too much melatonin may be at risk for vomiting, hyper- and hypotension, and even a worsening of alopecia (hair loss). Are you taking the right amount of melatonin? It can be difficult to say since it depends on the person. Determining the appropriate dose depends on many factors, including your age. For instance, older people with less natural melatonin levels may be more sensitive to melatonin supplements. Thus, it is recommended that those in their golden years talk to their doctor before starting the use of this supplement. However, since Sip2Sleep® relies on plant- and fruit-based derivatives, not synthetic melatonin, it is a safe alternative.
How to Start a New Sleep Regimen
For those who want to stop taking melatonin supplements, there is no need to taper away. Instead, stopping your melatonin routine will immediately begin to reduce unwanted symptoms and—in case of an “overdose”—will begin to eliminate the excess hormone from your body. Simultaneously, adopting a better sleep hygiene routine can help. This means planning out power naps during the day (circa 20 minutes) if you will benefit from them. Limit or stop caffeine and nicotine consumption. Avoid blue lights in your sleep space entirely.
To date, there have been no deaths linked to melatonin “overdose.” Still, it is a type of hormone and manipulating your body’s production of any hormone may not be the best approach to getting the sleep you deserve. For a long-term solution to trouble sleeping, you need an option that is completely organic, natural, and free from side effects.
Sip2Sleep® relies completely on a plant-based concoction for an enjoyable, sippable addition to your nightly routine. Shop for your first bottle today or save by signing up for a subscription service. Make this your new nightcap and discover the power of natural sleep help.