Melatonin, doctors on alert: few people know about the serious risk we face

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Doctors are sounding the alarm regarding melatonin. There is a serious risk we are facing: very few people know about it.

Melatonin is a hormone that is produced in the brain and is associated with the sleep-wake cycle of the human body. In addition to its role in regulating sleep, melatonin also has several other potential health benefits may make it useful for some people. This is mainly used in people who suffer from sleep disorders such as insomnia or time zone changes. Taking melatonin can promote deeper, more restful sleep, improving the overall quality of your sleep.

For those who travel across different time zones, taking melatonin can help reduce the symptoms of jet lag, making it easier for your body to adapt to your new sleep and wake schedule. Additionally, melatonin also has antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage. This potential protective effect may be beneficial to overall health and well-being. Now though a warning from doctors is raising alarm all about its consumption.

Melatonin, the doctors’ alarm: the great risk for those who take it

In recent years, the use of melatonin to aid children’s sleep has increased dramatically in the United States. Often, for convenience, parents choose to give melatonin-containing gummies as a supplement. However, behind this practice lies a serious danger for children, as highlighted by one studio condotto dai Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. According to data collected between 2019 and 2022, melatonin caused thousands of emergency room visits by children who accidentally ingested it, mistaking it for candy.

Why doctors advise not to take Melatonin – Sfilate.it

This worrying trend was confirmed by Jennifer N. Lind, spokesperson for the CDC, who highlighted a 420% increase in emergency room visits due to melatonin ingestion by children aged 5 years or younger. Its safety and side effects in children are not yet fully understood. Accidental ingestion of melatonin can cause symptoms such as excessive drowsiness, nausea, and agitation. A critical aspect that emerged from the study concerns the consistency of the melatonin dosage in the products available on the market.

Previous studies have highlighted significant discrepancies between the actual amount of melatonin present in products and that indicated on the label, increasing the risk of overdose. In response to this growing concern, experts recommend storing medications and supplements in child-resistant containers and always consulting a doctor before giving them to children. At the same time, it is essential to educate children on the importance of never taking medications without adult supervision.

To prevent accidental ingestion, parents are encouraged to keep medicines and supplements out of the reach of children and to use safe packaging. It is also important to educate children about the differences between medicine and candy to reduce the risk of accidents at home.