Melatonin Pros and Cons

When it comes to getting a good night’s sleep, melatonin has become one of the more popular natural products to aid in the process. It’s not really surprising given how many people are wary of traditional or prescribed medicines that for some become required for falling asleep.

However, given all the advantages that melatonin offers, does it really live up to its promises?

What Are the Pros of Melatonin?

There are a number of advantages to taking melatonin to help you get a good night’s sleep, especially for those who are not looking at getting a prescription product.

Restful Sleep:
Melatonin not only helps you fall asleep, but provides for a very restful night’s sleep as well. People who have taken this product report that they wake up feeling more refreshed and ready to go.

Versatility:
While most people may use this product to help them overcome insomnia, it is also very effective in relieving jet lag as well.

Antioxidant:
One of the many attributes of this product it that it is loaded with antioxidants which suppress the free radicals in the body. Free radicals cause premature damage to the hair, skin and nails which can be overcome by the intake of antioxidants. There has been research showing that antioxidants may be a factor in preventing the formation of certain types of cancer.

Less Expensive:
Perhaps one of the most popular reasons that melatonin is so popular is that it is very inexpensive to purchase. For many, this will fit within their budget and provide an effective night’s sleep. Plus, melatonin is easy to find online and at local retail stores as well.

What Are the Cons of Melatonin?

Despite the number of advantages that melatonin offers, there are a number of disadvantages that melatonin brings as well. Before purchasing this product, it is important to take everything into consideration first.

Drowsiness:
Arguably the most obvious symptom of using melatonin is that it can cause drowsiness which may affect your ability to drive your vehicle or operate heavy machinery.

Age Spots:
One of the side effects of melatonin is the increase in the number of age spots that will appear on the skin. For young people, this may not be an issue. But for those who are fighting age spots, the addition of melatonin will make the condition worse.

Decreased Sex Drive:
Studies have shown that this product may have a negative effect on your sex drive and may even decrease fertility as well. Plus, severe headaches may result depending on the condition of the person taking the product.

Depression:
Melatonin may also have an adverse reaction for those who are currently suffering from depression. This means that before you take this product, consult with your physician.

There are also studies that show people who suffer from autoimmune disorders and schizophrenia may suffer from negative effects as well. If you are taking prescription or an over the counter medication, you will need to consult with your doctor first before taking melatonin. However, for the most part melatonin is a safe product and can be taken normally.