Several
double blind studies have shown that melatonin supplementation is
effective in promoting sleep when melatonin levels are low. If one
takes melatonin when levels are not reduced, then it has reportedly no
effect. The reason for this is that the body normally secretes
melatonin just before bedtime. Darkness stimulates melatonin secretion
while light suppresses it. This process is all controlled by an
internal body clock governing hormonal secretions and is called
“natural circadian rhythm”. Low melatonin levels are considered a very
common cause of sleeplessness.
In jet-lag, the natural body clock may not allow for secretion of
melatonin at the appropriate time, thereby making melatonin supplementation useful.
Poor
methylators do not efficiently make melatonin from serotonin. This can
hinder P5P formation from vitamin B-6 which in turn leads to a
nutritional shortfall of this important nutrient. For this reason, we
now recommend that everyone who uses Super Nu-Thera or Thera Response,
also try melatonin in the evening to determine if it provides added
benefit in addition to sleep.
For those individuals who are deficient in glutathione, melatonin is
important because it stimulates the production of glutathione peroxidase.
Kirkman's
Melatonin Plus Magnesium is a melatonin supplement which
also contains 100 mg. of magnesium for additional benefits.
Magnesium can have a calming effect and may also relax nerve
impulses and muscle contractions.
