logo
Taking Melatonin for sleep? Top US doctor says why it alone may not work

Taking Melatonin for sleep? Top US doctor says why it alone may not work

Time of India3 days ago
Nowadays, sleep has become a luxury. Sleep is the first thing that is thrown under the bus whenever an inconvenience occurs. Sleep is crucial for the body to reset, repair, and recharge.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
Getting about 7 to 9 hours of sleep is vital for the proper functioning of the body. Despite its importance, sleep is often overlooked. When people struggle with insomnia and other sleep issues, they reach for supplements, and melatonin is popular among them. But is popping the pill really a fix for your sleep problems? Dr. Saurabh Sethi, a California-based gastroenterologist trained at Harvard and Stanford, with over 25 years of clinical experience, has shared some interesting facts about melatonin.
Let's take a look.
What are
melatonin supplements
(Pic courtesy: iStock)
Melatonin is a hormone naturally produced in our bodies. It is responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycles, known as the circadian rhythm. When it's dark, it triggers the brain's pineal gland to produce the hormone. This sends signals to the body to start winding down and get to sleep. However, when there is light, the production is suppressed, and it leads to wakefulness. Melatonin supplements work the same way.
Other than the sleep-wake cycle, melatonin also helps regulate certain things in the body, such as:
blood pressure
body temperature
blood glucose
body weight
hormone levels
Can melatonin supplements really help to sleep
(Pic courtesy: iStock)
Melatonin supplements mimic the body's natural hormone melatonin and thereby provide a restful sleep.
has consistently shown that melatonin helps to sleep. It may help with certain conditions, such as jet lag, delayed sleep-wake phase disorder, some sleep disorders in children, and anxiety before and after surgery.
Tired of too many ads? go ad free now
However, you might have to do more than just pop the pill, according to Dr. Sethi.
'I wish more people knew this about melatonin and sleep. Taking melatonin with no wind-down routine is like hitting the gas and brake at the same time,' the gastroenterologist said in a video shared on Instagram. The doctor clearly stated that taking the supplement alone 'won't get you anywhere.'
Melatonin alone won't work
According to
, melatonin supplements is not a one-size-fits-all solution for sleep disturbances. It has to be paired with the right factors. He stressed that melatonin supplements work best when paired with good sleep habits. Maintaining proper sleep hygiene will signal your body that it's time to rest. Dr. Sethi noted that going to bed at different times every night is a 'self-induced jet lag'. Yes, that's right. The body will struggle to go into the restful mode if you are inconsistent with your sleep schedule.
He also emphasized the importance of sleep, beyond providing rest for the body: ' Sleep fuels your immune system, memory, metabolism - everything.'
'Sleeping Prince' Dies After 20 Years In Coma | Saudi Arabia Grieves, Funeral Preparations Begin
So then what should you do?
Go to bed at the same time every night
The environment is important, so ensure your bedroom is calm, and has the right temperature to provide a restful sleep
Dim the lights, as darkness will promote further rest
Avoid screens at least 2 hours before bed
Avoid caffeine at least 4 hours before sleep
Wear clean and comfortable clothes to bed
White noise may help with sleep
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Hulk Hogan cause of death: How did the wrestling legend die? All on his health issues
Hulk Hogan cause of death: How did the wrestling legend die? All on his health issues

Hindustan Times

timean hour ago

  • Hindustan Times

Hulk Hogan cause of death: How did the wrestling legend die? All on his health issues

Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan has passed away at the age of 71, according to a report by TMZ. The cause of death is said to be cardiac arrest. Emergency responders were reportedly dispatched to Hogan's residence in Clearwater, Florida, early Thursday morning, following a call referencing a cardiac emergency. As of now, Hogan's family has not released an official statement regarding his passing. Professional wrestler Hulk Hogan passed away on Thursday. (AP) Also Read: Hulk Hogan dies: Trump family pays tribute to WWE legend; 'RIP to a legend' Hulk Hogan's Deteriorating Health Hulk Hogan had undergone numerous surgeries in recent years, including back operations, knee and hip replacements, shoulder surgeries, as well as procedures on his eyes and abdomen. 'I've had like 25 surgeries in the last ten years. 10 of them were back surgeries,' he told Jake Paul on the IMPAULSIVE podcast in September last year. 'I've had 10 back surgeries, both knees and both hips replaced, shoulders — everything.' In May, he was hospitalized for neck and back problems and underwent a cervical fusion surgery, described as a 'minor fusion procedure.' Following the surgery, rumors circulated that Hogan was on his 'deathbed,' but his representatives quickly dispelled these claims, confirming that he was recovering from the neck procedure. 'He just needs from time to time a medical check up,' the representative told The Independent at the time, assuring that there were 'no reasons to panic." In early July, Hulk Hogan's wife, Sky Daily Hogan, issued a statement to shut down rumors about her husband's condition. 'No, he's definitely not in a coma! His heart is strong, and there was never any lack of oxygen or brain damage… none of those rumors are true,' she wrote in an Instagram post. Frustrated by the spread of misinformation, she added, 'So truly, there's no need for the drama or panic some people try to stir up.'

Torrent launches nutrition supplement powder for adults
Torrent launches nutrition supplement powder for adults

Time of India

time2 hours ago

  • Time of India

Torrent launches nutrition supplement powder for adults

Mumbai: Ahmedabad-based Torrent Pharmaceuticals has launched a nutrition supplement powder for adults to boost consumer-focused nutrition portfolio. The nutritional supplement is branded as Shelcal Total , a brand name acquired by Torrent Pharma in 2013, and was used to market gummies for adults and kids. Shelcal Total is a daily supplement designed to deliver targeted nutrients including calcium, magnesium, vitamin D3 and K2 for bone strength , and has glucosamine and bamboo shoot extract for joint health, the company said in a release. As per the company, of India's total $42.97 billion (around ₹3.57 lakh crore) nutrition supplements market powdered supplements account for nearly 38 per cent of the total share and with their bioavailability and ease of daily integration the segment stands as high-growth category going forward. 'With increase in health awareness, more adults are in need of convenient holistic nutrition, the demand for trusted, convenient solutions is only accelerating,' said Amal Kelshikar Chief Commercial Officer, India Business, Torrent Pharma.

ADIA seeks CCI nod to acquire minority stake in Micro Life Sciences
ADIA seeks CCI nod to acquire minority stake in Micro Life Sciences

News18

time3 hours ago

  • News18

ADIA seeks CCI nod to acquire minority stake in Micro Life Sciences

New Delhi, Jul 24 (PTI) Abu Dhabi's sovereign wealth fund ADIA has sought approval from the Competition Commission of India (CCI) to acquire a 3 per cent stake in medical devices firm Micro Life Sciences Pvt Ltd (Meril) in a USD 200 million deal. The development came after a wholly-owned subsidiary of Abu Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA) on Monday said it has entered into definitive agreements to invest USD 200 million for a 3 per cent stake in Meril. ADIA, through its affiliate Platinum Jasmine A 2018 Trust (acting through its trustee Platinum Owl C 2018 RSC Ltd), is acquiring a stake in Gujarat-based Meril. 'The acquirer (Platinum Jasmine A 2018 Trust) proposes to subscribe to certain equity shares proposed to be issued by the target (Micro Life Sciences) and acquire certain equity shares of the target from Bilakhia Holdings Pvt Ltd, amounting to approximately 3.06 per cent shareholding in the target," according to a notice filed with the CCI on Wednesday. Platinum Jasmine A 2018, Trust and Micro Life Sciences said the proposed transaction does not have any impact on any relevant market in India, let alone any appreciable adverse effect on competition, and therefore, the definition of the relevant product and geographic market may ultimately be left open. Following the transaction, ADIA said this investment values the firm (MERIL) at an enterprise value of USD 6.6 billion. Founded by the Bilakhia Group, Meril is a global innovator in medical technology with a focus on clinically advanced solutions across multiple specialities, including cardiovascular, structural heart, orthopaedics, endo-surgery, in-vitro diagnostics and surgical robotics. Headquartered in Vapi, Gujarat, Meril employs more than 13,000 people, has over 35 global subsidiaries, and serves healthcare systems in around 150 countries. 'This investment will enable us to accelerate growth, attract world-class talent, and further strengthen our…clinical research efforts as we work towards improving the quality of human life through advanced healthcare solutions," Sanjeev Bhatt, Senior Vice President – Strategy at Meril, said. Established in 1976, ADIA is a globally diversified investment institution that prudently invests funds on behalf of the Abu Dhabi government through a strategy focused on long-term value creation. PTI HG HG BAL BAL view comments First Published: July 24, 2025, 21:00 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store