Health
Melatonin: The Hormone for Better Sleep
Melatonin is a hormone that is produced by the brain during the evenings and at night when luminosity is low. The hormone helps regulate the body’s sleep cycle and can be taken in the form of pills, drops or gummies, which are readily available over the counter.
While melatonin can be an essential aid to both children and adults who have trouble sleeping, pharmacist Michaël Tourigny cautions that it must be used appropriately. He explains that melatonin use should be avoided for a child who has difficulty napping during the day, as it is not the recommended first line of defense.
Practicing good sleeping habits is suggested by the pharmacist instead of relying too much on the hormone. Eliminating screen time an hour before bedtime and indulging in activities like reading could help ensure a good night’s sleep for adults and children alike.
In recent news, a daycare educator from Saint-Barnabé, 35 kilometers west of Trois-Rivières, who was also an employee of the municipality’s sports and recreation department, has been in the spotlight for the wrong reasons. The city council will be holding a meeting to discuss the next steps.
It is crucial to seek medical advice before taking any medication, including melatonin, to avoid unwanted results. Melatonin’s assistance in promoting sleep is invaluable, but due diligence and safe consumption practices must be followed to reap its benefits.
Credit: cbc.ca
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