How much melatonin should a child have

Melatonin for Kids: What Parents Should Know About This Sleep Aid

By: Anna Esparham, MD, FAAP, DABMA, DABOIM

Trouble falling and staying asleep affects 15% to 25% of children and adolescents. Not getting enough sleep can lead to some pretty difficult behaviors and health problems—crankiness, trouble paying attention, high blood pressure, weight problems and obesity, headaches and depression. Not surprisingly, many parents are searching for solutions to their child's sleep troubles, and some are considering dietary supplements like melatonin. Here's what you should know about these products.

What is melatonin?

Melatonin is sold as a sleep aid. It can be found over the counter as a dietary supplement, which means you can buy it at the pharmacy or a health food store, without a prescription. Its use is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or approved for that purpose.

Melatonin is a hormone-like substance produced by an area in the brain called the pineal gland. It is released naturally at night and tells the body it's time to sleep.

While melatonin plays a role in sleep, it is NOT a sleeping pill. It should only be used after a discussion with your pediatrician and pre-established healthy sleep habits that do not include medication.

Melatonin poisoning reports in children

As more families have turned to melatonin as a sleep aid, reports of poisonings in kids have rapidly increased. From 2012-2021, there were more than 260,000 child poisoning reports involving melatonin. In most cases, there were no symptoms and the children recovered. But some children needed hospital care and two children died. Because supplements are not regulated as medications in the U.S., some melatonin supplements also may contain serotonin or varying amounts of melatonin. The chewable tablet form that children often use have been found to have the most widely varying amounts of melatonin, sleep medicine experts said in a health advisory.

To prevent poisoning, store melatonin and all medicines, vitamins and dietary supplements in a safe place, away from children. For information about poison risks, visit the Poison Control website or call 1-800-222-1222. If your child has collapsed, is having a seizure, trouble breathing or can't be awakened, call 911.

Good sleep habits are the best medicine.

Often, a child's sleep issues can be solved with good bedtime routines. What the actual routines are can be specific to your child and his or her age, but they should occur each night around the same time. This will help your child understand that it's time to settle down and get ready to sleep.

The key to successful sleep routines is consistency. When starting a new sleep routine, it may take a while to get established. But don't give up! Routines are great for kids and well worth the time it takes to get them going.

Does blue light affect sleep?

Blue lights (as from tablets, e-readers, or smartphones) have a short wavelength that affects levels of melatonin more than any other wavelength does. The blue light fools the brain into thinking that it is daytime―making us feel more alert when we should be feeling sleepy since we're lying in bed. Over time, this wreaks havoc on our body's natural production of melatonin. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding exposure to screens for at least 1 hour before going to bed. Using devices past bedtime, especially for violent video games or shows, can also interfere with sleep.

If no matter how hard you try, you are unable to establish a good bedtime routine for your child, talk with your pediatrician to see if there are any other issues that might be causing your child's sleep difficulties.

What parents should know about melatonin

Melatonin may be a short-term way to help some kids get rest while you keep trying to establish good bedtime routines. It may also help some older children and teens reset sleep schedules―such as after vacations, summer breaks, or other interruptions. Most teens, after all, require more sleep―not less. Getting enough sleep each night can be hard for teens whose natural sleep cycles make it difficult for them to fall asleep before 11 p.m.―and who face a first-period class at 7:30 a.m. or earlier the next day; this is where melatonin may help.

Melatonin may also help children with neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism or attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It's use in these circumstances should be carefully monitored a child's pediatrician.

If you're considering melatonin for your child, decide with your pediatrician―cautiously and carefully.

Melatonin comes in several forms―liquids, gummies, chewable, capsules and tablets―all with varying dosages. And since there are no specific guidelines on melatonin dosing for children, it can be confusing.

The quality may not be the same for all melatonin products. It is not possible to tell how much melatonin you are getting. Also, there may be other ingredients in the products that can interact with other medicines or supplements you are taking. Look for supplements with "USP Verified" on the label. This mark indicates that the product contains the ingredients that are listed on the label, in that potency and amount.

The melatonin dosage and timing depend on why and how you plan to use it.
Start with the lowest dosage. Many children will respond to a low dose (0.5 mg or 1 mg) when taken 30 to 90 minutes before bedtime. Most children who do benefit from melatonin―even those with ADHD―don't need more than 3 to 6 mg of melatonin.

Always talk with your pediatrician about the proper dose and timing of melatonin. And remember, melatonin should not be a substitute for a good bedtime routine.

We need more research on the use and safety of melatonin in children.

While studies have shown that short-term use is relatively safe, less is known about longer uses of melatonin. For example, there are concerns about how it might affect a child's growth and development, particularly during puberty. Studies have also found that morning sleepiness, drowsiness, and possible increased urination at night are the most common side effects that occur while taking melatonin. Further, melatonin may interact with other medicines a child takes.

More information

• Sleep Tips for Your Family's Mental Health
• Healthy Sleep Habits: How Many Hours Does Your Child Need?
• Give Your Child's Eyes a Screen-Time Break: Here's Why
• Melatonin: In Depth (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health)

The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.

Melatonin Dosage for Kids | Sleep Foundation

Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the body that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. This hormone can also be produced synthetically. Melatonin is sold over the counter as a dietary supplement and may be used by people experiencing sleep issues, such as insomnia or jet lag.

In recent years, the number of adults and children using melatonin supplements has increased significantly. As this supplement grows in popularity, parents may wonder whether their kids would benefit from using melatonin and, if so, how to determine the appropriate dosage.

We discuss the dosage and safety of melatonin for children and teenagers, as well as other measures that can help kids get better sleep.

Is Melatonin Safe for Kids?

According to current research, melatonin might be safe for most children when taken short-term, meaning about three months or less in duration. At this time, there is not enough evidence to know whether taking melatonin for longer periods is safe for children or adolescents.

Guidelines for melatonin usage in children focus on its use for diagnosed sleep disorders and in children with certain medical conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. Currently, there is limited data on melatonin use in children without these conditions.

Experts suggest working closely with a child’s pediatrician when deciding whether to give melatonin to a child or adolescent. In particular, medical professionals emphasize that melatonin should not be used as a way to pressure or force a child to sleep, but should only be given to children with a confirmed medical need.

How Much Melatonin Should I Give My Child?

Dosage recommendations for melatonin can vary depending on the type of sleep problem and the child’s age.

Doctors may prescribe melatonin for sleep-onset insomnia, which makes it difficult to fall asleep. For this diagnosis, doctors often use the following dosage levels:

• Preschool-age (3 to 5 years): 1 to 2 milligrams
• School-age (6 to 12 years): 2 to 3 milligrams
• Adolescents (13 to 18 years): 5 milligrams

In all cases, however, experts recommend always starting with the lowest dose of melatonin available, then increasing the amount only if necessary.

Side Effects of Melatonin in Children

When starting any new vitamin, supplement, or medication, it is important to weigh the risks beforehand. Although more studies need to evaluate risks of taking melatonin long-term, reported side effects in children and adolescents include:

• Agitation
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Increased bedwetting
• Mood swings

Because melatonin is a hormone, some health professionals have suggested that taking it as a supplement could interfere with a child’s development. However, several studies have shown no adverse effects in reproductive function or child development.

Melatonin may also interact and interfere with other herbs, supplements, and certain medications. A child’s doctor should be aware of any supplements or medications the child is currently taking before they start melatonin.

What to Consider Before Giving Your Child Melatonin

Before giving a child any sleep aid, it is important to discuss this decision thoroughly with a pediatrician. Childhood sleep problems do not always require treatment with drugs or supplements. Many times, changing bedtime behavior alone is enough. The child’s doctor can discuss whether melatonin is appropriate for the situation as well as the supplement’s risks, benefits, and dosage.

As a dietary supplement, melatonin is not regulated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. As a result, the actual concentration of melatonin contained in different products and formulations varies greatly. The true amount can even be different from the amount listed on the product’s label. Some experts suggest using pharmaceutical-grade products, which may be more reliable.

Furthermore, what may work for an adult as a sleep aid may not be helpful for a child. One reason for this is that children metabolize medicines and supplements differently than adults.

Many different melatonin products are available to purchase. If a child’s doctor approves the use of melatonin, it may be helpful to ask about specific products, as well as the dosage and duration of treatment.

The safety and efficacy of supplements is not closely monitored by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Shoppers should take additional measures to make sure they are purchasing reputable products.

Alternatives to Melatonin for Kids

Aside from melatonin, doctors may recommend other drugs or supplements to help a child with sleep-related issues. Some of these can be purchased over the counter, while others require a prescription.

• Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamines that relieve allergy symptoms can also cause drowsiness. Though antihistamines are available without a prescription, they do have risks and should be used under the guidance of a pediatrician.
• Valerian: Valerian is a plant that is marketed as a sleep aid and dietary supplement. The evidence is mixed regarding valerian’s effectiveness at treating insomnia, but studies report few negative side effects. Children under 3 years old should not take valerian.
• Prescription drugs: In some cases, doctors may prescribe drugs that are usually used to treat sleep problems in adults.

Note that experts caution against taking melatonin in combination with other sleep aids. They can have an additive effect in the body, causing an excess of sleepiness or sedation, and may interact in other ways that could be dangerous.

Anyone considering giving a child or adolescent any product to help them sleep should start by talking with the child’s pediatrician for guidance. Every situation is unique, and what works for one child may not be helpful for another.

Sleep Tips for Kids

Problems at bedtime are relatively common in children and typically respond well to behavioral strategies. Before starting melatonin, it may be helpful to try new routines and other behavioral changes to combat sleep issues. There are a variety of sleep strategies to consider that may help a child get better sleep.

• Follow a bedtime routine: Routines help children improve their sleep. Components of a nightly routine might include taking a warm bath, changing into pajamas, brushing teeth, turning off bright lights, and reading a bedtime story.
• Set consistent bedtimes: Keep children’s bedtimes the same every day, even on weekends. This consistency reinforces the child’s sleep schedule.
• Keep screens out of the bedroom: Electronic devices that emit blue light can delay the release of natural melatonin in the body. Using smartphones, computers, TVs, and gaming devices just before sleep can signal the brain to remain alert and awake. It is recommended to avoid screens for at least two hours before bedtime.
• Provide opportunities for exercise: Daily physical activity improves the chances kids will be tired by bedtime. When kids and teens do not get their bodies moving during the day, they may not feel sleepy at bedtime.
• Be careful with food and drink: Eating a large meal before bedtime or drinking beverages with caffeine can make it harder to get a good night’s sleep.
• Create a space conducive to sleep: Be sure your child’s bedroom is free from light and noise, and keep the thermostat at a temperature that is comfortable.

• Was this article helpful?
• YesNo

References

+18  Sources

• 1.

  Natural Medicine Comprehensive Database. (2021, December 13). Melatonin. Therapeutic Research Center. Retrieved April 16, 2022, from https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/940.html

• 2.

  National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. (2021, January). Melatonin: What you need to know. Retrieved April 16, 2022, from https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/melatonin-what-you-need-to-know

• 3.

  National Institutes of Health. (2022, March 1). Use of melatonin supplements rising among adults. Retrieved April 16, 2022, from https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/use-melatonin-supplements-rising-among-adults

• 4.

  Black, L. I., Clarke, T. C., Barnes, P. M., Stussman, B. J., & Nahin, R. L. (2015). Use of complementary health approaches among children aged 4-17 years in the United States: National Health Interview Survey, 2007-2012. National Health Statistics Reports, (78), 1–19. https://pubmed.ncbi. nlm.nih.gov/25671583/

• 5.

  Owens, J. A. (2022, January 20). Pharmacotherapy for insomnia in children and adolescents: A rational approach. In R. D. Chervin (Ed.). UpToDate. Retrieved April 17, 2022, from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/pharmacotherapy-for-insomnia-in-children-and-adolescents-a-rational-approach

• 6.

  Skrzelowski, M., Brookhaus, A., Shea, L. A., & Berlau, D. J. (2021). Melatonin use in pediatrics: Evaluating the discrepancy in evidence based on country and regulations regarding production. The Journal of Pediatric Pharmacology and Therapeutics, 26(1), 4–20. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33424495/

• 7.

  Schwab, R. J. (2020, June). Insomnia and excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). Merck Manual Consumer Version. Retrieved May 6, 2022, from https://www.merckmanuals.com/home/brain,-spinal-cord,-and-nerve-disorders/sleep-disorders/insomnia-and-excessive-daytime-sleepiness-eds

• 8.

  Zisapel, N. (2022). Assessing the potential for drug interactions and long term safety of melatonin for the treatment of insomnia in children with autism spectrum disorder. Expert Review of Clinical Pharmacology, 15(2), 175–185. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35285365/

• 9.

  Auger, R. R. (2021, June 1). Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder. In A. F. Eichler (Ed.). UpToDate. Retrieved April 17, 2022, from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/delayed-sleep-wake-phase-disorder

• 10.

  Savage, R. A., Zafar, N., Yohannan, S., & Miller, J. M. (2021, August 15). Melatonin. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved April 16, 2022, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534823/

• 11.

  Erland, L. A., & Saxena, P. K. (2017). Melatonin natural health products and supplements: Presence of serotonin and significant variability of melatonin content. Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, 13(2), 275–281. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27855744/

• 12.

  Jones, B. L. (2020, October). Overview of drug treatment in children. Merck Manual Professional Version. Retrieved April 16, 2022, from https://www.merckmanuals.com/professional/pediatrics/principles-of-drug-treatment-in-children/overview-of-drug-treatment-in-children

• 13.

  A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia. (2020, May 30). Antihistamines for allergies. MedlinePlus. Retrieved April 27, 2022, from https://medlineplus.gov/ency/patientinstructions/000549.htm

• 14.

  National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. (2013, March 15). Valerian. Retrieved April 27, 2022, from https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Valerian-HealthProfessional/

• 15.

  Owens, J. A. (2020, August 18). Behavioral sleep problems in children. In R. D. Chervin (Ed.). UpToDate. Retrieved May 7, 2022, from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/behavioral-sleep-problems-in-children

• 16.

  National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Division of Population Health. (2016, July 15). Tips for better sleep. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved April 20, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/sleep_hygiene.html

• 17.

  Shechter, A., Kim, E. W., St-Onge, M. P., & Westwood, A. J. (2018). Blocking nocturnal blue light for insomnia: A randomized controlled trial. Journal of Psychiatric Research, 96, 196–202. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29101797/

• 18.

  Peterson, D. M. (2021, January 15). The benefits and risks of aerobic exercise. In M. D. Aronson & F. G. O'Connor (Eds.) UpToDate. Retrieved April 17, 2022, from https://www.uptodate.com/contents/the-benefits-and-risks-of-aerobic-exercise

See More

How much melatonin should you really be taking?

Melatonin is one of the world's most popular sleep supplements. In the US alone, more than 3 million people take melatonin supplements to help them fall asleep and wake up less at night (1). Melatonin is naturally present in your body, is relatively safe, and unlike some prescription sleeping pills, melatonin is not addictive.

When used in low doses, melatonin is generally safe and a great way to keep your body healthy by encouraging regular restful sleep (2). But always seek the advice of your healthcare provider before using melatonin as a sleep aid. Never exceed the recommended dose and do not take it during the day.

What is melatonin and how does it work?

Melatonin is a natural hormone produced by your brain. It is responsible for maintaining your body's circadian rhythm, which is your natural 24-hour sleep-wake cycle (3). Your body should naturally produce and release more melatonin in the evening and at night, with levels dropping in the morning (4). Melatonin production is your brain's way of telling your body it's time for sleep.

This is a pretty smart hormone - it knows when it's dark or light. Darkness causes your body to produce more melatonin, which then signals sleep and helps you fall asleep. On the other hand, exposure to light reduces melatonin production and signals your body to wake up and be alert.

Research shows that some people who struggle to fall asleep or are unable to fall asleep may not produce enough natural melatonin (5). Thus, melatonin supplements are often used to regulate natural sleep-wake cycles. But melatonin supplements should only be used at appropriate times of the day and only in recommended amounts.

Too much melatonin

Some people make the mistake of believing that if a little melatonin helps, a lot will definitely help more. Unfortunately, this is not only wrong, but also dangerous.

Taking too much melatonin can damage your sleep cycle. It can also cause pain, nausea, dizziness, and irritability, all of which interfere with restorative sleep. If you go overboard with melatonin supplements or take it a second time, you may even wake up in the middle of the night and have difficulty falling asleep. As with any supplement, follow the recommended dose on the package or in the instructions provided by your doctor.

When should I take melatonin?

Time is of the essence with melatonin. Remember, your body should naturally produce more melatonin when it gets dark outside, so if you take supplemental melatonin too early in the evening - before the sun goes down or before you're really ready to fall asleep for the night - you risk resetting the natural cycle, which trying to support your body. Don't fight this natural flow.

Melatonin can be very helpful when your regular sleep pattern is disrupted. For example, if you have been flying across multiple time zones and have experienced jet lag, or if you have a long work week requiring late night shifts. In situations like this, melatonin supplements can help you get back into your natural rhythm.

There is another timing issue to be aware of. As you age, your body may naturally produce less and less melatonin(3). If you're over 60 and struggling to fall asleep or waking up at night, low melatonin production could be part of the problem.

How much melatonin should I take?

It is best to take the smallest amount of melatonin that produces results. Generally, healthy adults can take 3 to 5 mg of melatonin for 60-90 minutes before they plan to fall asleep (6). This amount of time will allow your brain to recognize the extra melatonin and trigger a signal to help you fall asleep. (6) 2 to 12 mg taken at bedtime for up to 4 weeks can help bring your natural rhythm back to normal 6.

Melatonin for long sleep. Most studies have used 2 to 3 mg controlled release melatonin for up to 29 weeks. Doses up to 12 mg per day for shorter periods (up to 4 weeks) have also been studied (6).

Melatonin for blood pressure support 2 to 3 mg controlled-release melatonin for up to 4 weeks6 days (6).

The above dosages have been studied scientifically, but always check with your doctor first before adding melatonin to find the safest intake for your individual needs (6).

Sleep Melatonin

When you're looking for the best melatonin to help you sleep, you'll find many different melatonin dosages and types of melatonin supplements, from sustained release formulas to sublingual melatonin. Each formulation has its own benefits and many options for optimal melatonin dosage and delivery.

Is melatonin safe for children?

Children who sleep well may perform better and worry less about their weight. They may also be less likely to get injured while playing sports and have a healthier immune system. In fact, some experts believe that many children who have trouble concentrating simply don't sleep well and don't rest well enough to pay proper attention in class(7).

Since sleep is so important, is it safe to give melatonin to a child to help him get the rest he needs? Unfortunately, there is not enough research on the use of melatonin in children to be sure. Melatonin is a hormone and should be used with caution, but some research suggests that a very low dose of liquid melatonin, used in limited amounts, can help children fall asleep (8).

Melatonin for children

Some parents use liquid melatonin to help their child fall asleep when their sleep patterns are disturbed, such as on vacation after a long day or two of travel, or when a busy schedule doesn't give them enough time to sleep. This is similar to how a shift worker can use melatonin to adjust their sleep-wake cycle after breaking out of a rhythm due to a change in work schedule. In both cases, the use is very short-term, limited. We recommend that you consult your doctor before giving melatonin to children.

The best way to help kids sleep better is to do what you've probably been taught as new parents: set a good nighttime routine, dim the house lights about half an hour before the kids go to bed, and turn on the electronics. and screens away.

Melatonin dosage for children

If you do decide to give your child melatonin after talking with your doctor, try the lowest dose he recommends. Melatonin dosages for children are often 0.5 to 6 mg (9), but never use more than necessary. Start with a very low dose 30-60 minutes before bedtime. Increase dosage only as needed and never take a higher dose than your doctor recommends.

Does melatonin have side effects? Is it possible to overdose on melatonin?

Melatonin has a reputation for being safe, and for the most part this is true, although there are some medications that can interact with melatonin (10). But it's important to know that the right amount of melatonin for one person may be too much for another, and the side effects of taking too much melatonin will also vary from person to person(10).

When supplemental doses of melatonin are available at high doses, it may be tempting to hit the maximum amount right away, but the best approach is to start at a very low dose and stick to the lowest effective dose for you. The “more is better” philosophy does not apply to melatonin.

Side effects of too much melatonin

Sleepiness the next day - Taking too much melatonin can cause you to be lethargic the next morning or sleepy at unexpected times (10).

Intense dreams - some people report having intense dreams or nightmares after taking too much melatonin (10).

Melatonin for children - because it is a hormone, side effects in children may be more problematic than in adults (10). Always check with your doctor before giving melatonin to a child.

Hypothermic effect - with the natural release of melatonin, there is a natural decrease in body temperature, so overuse can exacerbate this natural effect (11).

General Melatonin Side Effects and Warnings

It is important to consult your physician before starting any new dietary supplement, especially if you are taking prescription drugs, have a medical condition, are pregnant or breastfeeding.

However, melatonin is still considered "likely safe" for up to 2 years when used properly and "possibly safe" for long-term use. (12) Some people complained of headache, dizziness, stomach cramps, short-term feelings of depression and irritability. (12)

Pregnancy and lactation - Melatonin supplements are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women because little is known about the potential effects. (1,3) Melatonin supplements can also interfere with ovulation, making it harder to conceive. (12)

Blood sugar and blood pressure - people with diabetes or high blood pressure should check with their doctor before taking supplemental melatonin as it can increase blood sugar levels in diabetics and increase blood pressure in people taking certain blood pressure medications. (12)

Depression - melatonin may worsen symptoms of depression and cause short-term feelings of depression. (12)

The best advice is to start small and take your time. In other words, don't go straight to the maximum dose you can find. After all, a low 0.3-1mg tablet may be just what your tired body needs.

Melatonin for Better Sleep

Melatonin supplements are a great way to relax your body and get it back on track. As we mentioned, we always recommend talking to your doctor about the best melatonin dosage for your needs, but we hope this article has helped you better understand your choices and how to use melatonin for sleep.

Resources

1 National Center for Complementary & Integrative Health. Melatonin. https://nccih.nih.gov/research/statistics/NHIS/2012/natural-products/melatonin (Accessed 01/19/2018)

2 Is Taking a Melatonin Dietary Supplement Safe? WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/tc/melatonin-overview#1 (Accessed 01/19/2018)

3 Melatonin. University of Maryland Medical Center. https://www.umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/melatonin (Accessed 01/19/2018)

4 Melatonin: In Depth. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. https://nccih.nih.gov/health/melatonin (Accessed 01/19/2018)

5 Neurobiology, Pathophysiology, and Treatment of Melatonin Deficiency and Dysfunction. US National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3354573/ (Accessed 01/19/2018)

6 Melatonin. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-940-melatonin.aspx?activeingredientid=940 (Accessed 01/19/2018)

7 Why Your Child's Behavior May Not Mean ADHD. St. Louis Children's Hospital. http://www.stlouischildrens.org/articles/wellness/why-your-childs-behavior-may-not-mean-adhd (Accessed 01/19/2018)

8 Melatonin for Sleep in Children with Autism: A Controlled Trial Examining Dose, Tolerability, and Outcomes. US National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi. nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3368078/ (Accessed 01/19/2018)

9 Melatonin and Children. Sleep Health Foundation. https://www.sleephealthfoundation.org.au/pdfs/Melatonin-and-Children.pdf (Accessed 03/09/2018)

10 Can you overdose on melatonin? medical news today. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320094.php(Accessed 08/09/2018)

11 The hypothermic effect of melatonin on core body temperature: is more better? PubMed. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/8836952(Accessed 08/09/2018)

12 Melatonin. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-940/melatonin(Accessed 08/09/2018)

The sleep hormone melatonin - When melatonin is produced in a child

We often say that in matters of improving children's sleep, mothers simply need helpers. But in fact, any mother already has one assistant - this is melatonin . Due to its close relationship with sleep, melatonin is called the sleep hormone . Let's figure out what role this useful substance plays in the normalization of children's (and not children's) rest.

What is melatonin, the sleep hormone?

First of all, melatonin is a hormone whose synthesis is established approximately by the third month of a child's life . It is produced in the blood cyclically, according to the daily rhythm of the change of day and night. The production of melatonin is also influenced by a number of external and internal factors - from the rotation of the earth to the way of life of a person, but it is important that this is a night hormone - darkness is needed for its synthesis . Mostly the hormone is produced at night. During the day, the level of secretion of the sleep hormone is minimal. Actively melatonin, the sleep hormone, begins to be produced in the evening, at about 19-20 hours every day , in the dead of night from 2 to 4 hours, its concentration reaches its peak, and in the morning it is quickly excreted from the body, its content in the blood drops sharply and remains low throughout the day.

When melatonin enters the blood in sufficient quantity, all the muscles of the human body relax, the concentration of glucose in the blood drops, the processes in the body slow down, the body temperature drops slightly, and a state of severe drowsiness sets in. If at this moment you turn off the light and go to bed, then it will be very easy to fall asleep. In children from 3-4 months to 5 years, the required concentration of the hormone, as a rule, accumulates by 19-20.30. Sleep that began at this “right” time will be the deepest and most peaceful. Melatonin will help you wake up less often at night, improve your body's rest during sleep, and reduce fatigue during the day.