FUNCTIONS Melatonin is a natural hormone nutrient that is synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan by the pineal gland in the back of the brain. Melatonin also occurs in small amounts in a variety of foods. In the body, melatonin appears to regulate sleep/wake cycles, support normal immune function, and protect cells from free radical damage.
Most of the research on melatonin has focused on its role in maintaining normal sleep/wake rhythms. The perception of daylight in the eyes is a signal for the pineal gland to inhibit melatonin synthesis and release. At night or in the dark, the body’s melatonin production rises. The rise in plasma melatonin is thought to be responsible for bringing on sleep. Nocturnal melatonin production is highest in children and begins to decline from adolescence on until it is virtually absent in the elderly.
Melatonin supports normal immune function by helping maintain the activity of circulating natural killer cells. It also has been found to function as an antagonist for stress-induced immunosuppression. Melatonin is considered a potent antioxidant that enters all body cells to help prevent free radical damage. In the brain, melatonin is perhaps the most important physiological antioxidant. Due to its lipid and water-soluble properties, it can freely cross the blood-brain barrier. In vitro studies show that melatonin is more effective than glutathione in scavenging toxic hydroxyl radicals, and also more efficient than vitamin E in neutralizing peroxyl radicals which can induce DNA damage. Furthermore, melatonin stimulates the main antioxidant enzyme of the brain, glutathione peroxidase.
Absorbed melatonin entering the blood stream is rapidly metabolized by the liver and the breakdown products are excreted by the kidneys. The half-life of conventional oral melatonin preparations is 20-50 minutes. Douglas Laboratories’ Controlled-Release Melatonin is designed to release its melatonin into the small intestine over a period of approximately three hours. This results in a more gradual and longer-lasting elevation of blood melatonin levels, more closely resembling the natural secretion pattern of endogenous melatonin.
INDICATIONS Controlled-Release Melatonin tablets may be a useful nutritional adjunct for individuals who wish to supplement with the hormone melatonin.
SUGGESTED USE As a dietary supplement, adults take 1 capsule one hour before bedtime as needed, or as directed by your healthcare professional.