. What is melatonin and how does it help with restful sleep?
Melatonin is a natural hormone that plays a pivotal role in keeping your sleep-wake cycle on track. It is a hormone made by the pineal gland and is most commonly used in treating insomnia and improving sleep conditions. Darkness causes the body to produce more melatonin and signals the body to go to sleep. The opposite also works – more light means the body understands it’s time to wake up. It is most commonly available in pill form which can be directly absorbed in the body. When you add melatonin supplements, it helps you get a restful sleep. But like before taking any supplement, you should consult your phyisician and know about all the precautions that you need to take.

Q. How much daily sleep should I get?
For adults, 7 – 8 hours of daily sleep is ideal to keep them healthy and rejuvenated. But due to a lot of reasons the sleep cycle may get erratic or disturbed. Spending long hours in front of the screen, stress, and sleep problems are the main reasons due to which adults may not get a good night’s sleep. If you are also struggling with your sleep cycle or have sleep problems, then ask your physician to know more about melatonin supplements.

Q. What is the recommended daily dosage of melatonin?
Melatonin can be taken in doses of 0.5 – 10 mg every day. Ideally, you should start with small doses and once your body gets used to it, only then the daily dose should be increased and should not be exceeded at anytime. If you are using melatonin tablets to improve your sleep cycle, have them at least 30 minutes before bedtime for maximum effectiveness. If you are using them to improve your circadian rhythm and want a more regular sleep cycle, then it is recommended that you take melatonin tablets 2 – 3 hours before you go to bed.

Q. What are the advantages of melatonin for your body?
There are various advantages of melatonin for the body. Some of the most common ones are –

• Supports adequate sleep time
  Various studies show that regularly taking melatonin supplements can improve your sleeping time and shorten the amount of time it takes to fall asleep. It also enhances sleep quality in both children and adults.
• May increase the levels of human growth hormone
  Human growth hormone plays an important role in the growth and cellular regeneration. Higher levels of growth hormone are linked to better lean muscle mass and strength in the body. Melatonin supplements may help increase the levels of human growth hormones in the body.
• Reduces symptoms of seasonal depression
  Seasonal depression is related to change in seasons and usually occurs during fall and winter time. It is related to change in the body's circadian rhythm. Melatonin is known to have positive effects on reducing the symptoms of seasonal depression.
• Promotes eye health
  With so much time that we spend in front of screens, it is really important to take care of our eye health. Melatonin has a high antioxidant content that can help prevent cell damage and will keep your eyes healthy. It is also known to could be caused due to chronic sleep deprivation.

Q. Is it safe to consume GNC Melatonin supplements every day?
Yes, it is safe to consume GNC Melatonin supplements every day for a short term if your physician has recommended them based on a particular health condition. It is best to read the dosage instructions given on the package before consuming. It is advised that you should not exceed the daily dosage as it may cause certain side effects or allergic reactions. Keep in mind that you take melatonin supplements right before bedtime and not during the day.

Q. What are some side effects of melatonin tablets?
Make sure to always consult your physician before including any new supplement in your routine. It is completely safe to take GNC Melatonin as long as they are prescribed by your physician. Some of the most common side effects of melatonin supplements are – dizziness, nausea, drowsiness, headache, irritability, diarrhoea etc. If you are pregnant, a lactating mother, or someone with a chronic medical condition, then it is best to stay away from melatonin supplements, unless especially recommended by your physician. If you notice any of the above-mentioned side effects, stop taking these supplements and seek medical help immediately. Discontinue use 2 weeks before any surgery.