When I think of the supplement melatonin, the first thing that comes to mind is supporting sleep. It can be very helpful for initiating sleep, increasing sleep duration, as well as regulating circadian rhythm and reducing jet lag. But, new research shows many more exciting health benefits of melatonin. For example, studies indicate that it can also protect against neurodegenerative diseases and brain injury, help with migraines, provide important support for cancer patients, support heart health, and protect the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Melatonin is a hormone that is produced from the pineal gland in the brain. But, it is now known that it is also produced in multiple sites in the body. In fact, up to 500 times more melatonin is synthesized in the intestinal tract than in the pineal gland. Derived from the amino acid L-tryptophan, melatonin has powerful antioxidant capabilities and anti-inflammatory properties. Promising new areas of research include: Continue reading “Health Benefits of Melatonin – Not Just for Sleep!”
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