Now Melatonin Extra Strength 10mg - 100 V-Caps

Cautions & Warnings: Consult a health care practitioner prior to use if you have asthma, cardiovascular disease, hormonal disorder, immune system disease, diabetes or hyperglycemia, liver or kidney disease, seizure disorders, migraine, depression, or if you are taking anticoagulants, anticonvulsants, immunosuppressives, steroids, blood pressure or sedative/hypnotic medications. If symptoms persist continuously for more than 4 weeks (chronic insomnia), consult your health care practitioner . Consumption with alcohol, other medications or natural health products with sedative properties is not recommended. Do not use if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Rare allergic reactions, mild gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, vomiting, or cramping) have been known to occur; in which case, discontinue use. Do not drive or use machinery for 5 hours after taking melatonin.

MELATONIN

Melatonin is a naturally-occurring hormone produced by the pineal gland that plays a role in the regulation of the sleep-wake cycle. It is secreted by the pineal gland after your body senses the fall of darkness at the end of each day, and keeps your body synchronized with the rhythms of day and night. It is also a powerful antioxidant that supports immune system function. As we age, melatonin levels decline, so supplementation is necessary to provide optimal levels of this important hormone. Scientists believe this reduction is the reason why older adults have more trouble sleeping than younger people. Rather than using animal glandular tissues, NOW uses a synthesized nature-identical form of melatonin that is vegetarian.

INSOMNIA

insomnia or, habitual sleeplessness, affects approximately one in ten individuals and becomes more common as we age. It can involve the inability to fall asleep or the inability to stay asleep. Causes of insomnia are, use of stimulants like caffeine or antihistamine, evening eating, evening exercise, shift work, an uncomfortable sleep environment, a weak bladder, worry, grief or stress. Chronic insomnia is usually caused by a medical condition such as hypoglycemia, hyperthyroidism, restless leg syndrome, arthritis, breathing disorders, indigestion or sleep apnea. Half of all chronic insomniacs suffer from depression or another psychological disorder.

We need deep and sound sleep to allow both our bodies and our minds to recuperate from the challenges and (often) stress of our daily lives. When we don't get enough good quality sleep, it affects our body in many ways. Many bodily processes are regulated by sleep for example production of certain neurotransmitters and hormones. If the specific glands and cells do not receive the correct messages produced by sleeping, then the healthy amount of these important substances may not be produced. Depression may result in the case of neurotransmitter deficiency. Fatigue or anxiety may result in the case of insufficient adrenal or thyroid hormones. Feeling tired frequently can reduce someone's enjoyment of life.

Optimizing neurotransmitter production is crucial, as these are the chemical messengers that tell your brain when it's time to go to sleep. Melatonin is a neurohormone that regulates your sleep cycle. Often used for jet lag, it help to "reset" your sleep cycle when it has been disrupted by travel or irregular sleeping. The amino acid 5HTP is the direct precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin, which is partly responsible for sound sleep, healthy mood and for feeling calm. The herb St. John's wort can also help to elevate neurotransmitter levels and can also help reduce anxiety and nervousness. None of these should be taken with recommendation antidepressants.