In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy for stress-related disorders to take hold in our lives, including insomnia and anxiety.While prescriptions for anti-anxiety medications and sleeping medications are on the rise, there are more natural ways to relieve these two increasingly prevalent problems. If you suffer from insomnia or anxiety, you should know that melatonin can help you have more natural sleep and reduce your stress, without the many side effects of prescription drugs.

Melatonin is a hormone that is produced naturally in the body by the pineal gland, which is located above the middle of the brain. Upon the body’s exposure to darkness, the pineal gland begins to produce melatonin to help with the onset and maintenance of sleep. The pineal gland usually produces melatonin throughout the night.

However, as people age, the pineal gland produces less melatonin, with the not-surprising result of an increase in sleep problems. Late-night exposure to electronic devices, as well as shift work, also complicate the natural production of melatonin.

When taken at the correct dosage and at the right time, melatonin has been proven to encourage the onset of sleep, as well as to improve sleep quality. Melatonin helps the heart and other organs to rest, and cleans toxins and free radicals from the body, working as a powerful antioxidant. Best of all, since melatonin is a natural hormone produced by the body, there are no dangerous side effects.

In addition to being an excellent remedy for insomnia, melatonin has also been proven to help reduce anxiety. Studies have shown that it effectively reduces anxiety in cancer patients and in individuals experiencing stressful situations (such as travel and surgery).  Melatonin is highly effective at reducing age-related anxiety, especially in older adults with sleep disorders.

The only drawback to melatonin use is that for an optimal effect, you must take the correct dosage at the right time. For more information on how this powerful hormone can improve not only your sleep, but your stress levels, or for help in overcoming your anxiety, please contact me.