A preliminary study conducted by the American Heart Association reveals that adults with insomnia who used melatonin for at least 12 months had about a 90% higher chance of first-time heart failure within five years. This was found using five years of health records from 130,828 adults. Participants in the long-term melatonin use group were also almost twice as likely to die from any cause over five years.
It’s important to note that this study hasn’t yet been peer-reviewed, and that the data may be skewed because melatonin use in the study was based on prescribed medication entries in electronic health records. In the UK, melatonin must be prescribed, whereas it is available over the counter in countries like the US. That means people in the study using over-the-counter melatonin would have been mistakenly included in the non-melatonin group. As a result, more research is required.
However, if you’re looking to curb your long-term melatonin use, or, like me, melatonin simply doesn’t work for you, there are alternatives that can help you fall asleep. These are my favorites.
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is derived from hemp plants. CBD is a safe and effective treatment for insomnia that contains almost no THC, the substance in marijuana that alters one’s mental state. Many studies suggest that CBD is very effective in promoting sleep and decreasing anxiety. It comes in many forms, such as oils and lotions. Use before bed to promote sleepiness and relaxation.
2. Brew a hot cup of herbal tea
Brewing tea is an ancient practice. Chamomile, valerian root and magnolia tea are all natural remedies for anxiety, stress and insomnia. Drink a cup of one of these herbal teas at least an hour to two before bed — this gives you time to relax, enjoy the tea and use the bathroom before lights off. Be sure to look at the nutrition label to make sure no caffeine has been added to the ingredients.
Leave a Reply