SPEAKER: Having trouble catching
Z's?
Here's the truth about the sleep
aid melatonin.
Can it really help you get
better shut eye?
Maybe.
A melatonin supplement might
help you fall asleep
and stay asleep
during the night.
Melatonin seems to help reset
your body's internal clock
if something throws it off
like jet lag or shift work.
Scientists need to do more
research to find out how it
helps with insomnia.
Can you give your child
melatonin?
It depends.
You have to check
with their pediatrician first.
It's been shown to help children
with sleep problems related
to autism and ADHD.
If the doctor says it's
OK to try it,
start with the lowest
effective dose
and use it for the shortest
amount of time possible.
Can you become physically
dependent on melatonin?
That's unlikely.
But other questions
about its long-term safety
remain unanswered, especially
for children.
Could melatonin
be risky for certain people?
Yes.
Avoid it if you're
pregnant or breastfeeding.
It may also pose risks if you
have certain health problems,
take certain medications,
or you're going to have surgery
soon.
The bottom line-- always check
with your doctor
before you or your child
tries a new supplement.
If they give you the green light
to use melatonin,
ask which brand they recommend,
what dose you should take,
and how many hours before
bedtime to take it.
Once you have this info,
you'll be more likely to get
a good night's sleep.
