Melatonin
Melatonin is an over the counter supplement that is used as a sleep aid. It is a natural occuring hormone that is secreted by the pineal gland and it has a strong effect on the bodies natural sleep/wake cycle. It can be used for jetlag to help reset the bodies internal clock.
Natural production of melatonin is increased when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Low levels of sunlight exposure can stop production of melatonin and lead to insomnia.
In addition to its sleep inducing properties, melatonin is also a very stong antioxidant, that may help the body to re-use other antioxidants like vitamin c and e. This is called redox cycling and it helps you body use antioxidants more efficiently.
It is generally considered a safe supplement, but is not allowed over the counter in certain countries like New Zealand, and Germany.
Many CFS and FMS patients have severe insomnia. Lack of sleep can often worsen symptoms and cause further distress to patients. Chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers can either have problems falling asleep, staying asleep or both. It is a very common symptom of the disease and if it can be successfully treated, it can add an improvement to the patients overall sense of well-being. Many doctors see that CFS patients have a shifted sleep/wake cycle and don’t feel like going to sleep until very early in the morning.
Dr. Charles Lapp, a doctor that specializes in chronic fatigue, says that he likes using melatonin in conjunction with light exposure, through either a light box or sunlight. He recommends 3 mg per night for most people, but does not recommend it for children and teenagers. Melatonin is a hormone and can suppress other hormones in the body like luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone. This is why it should not be used in children and teenagers.
