Melatonin is reported
to be helpful in minimizing or suppressing seizure episodes, particularly
the ones that occur during the night, or while the dog is sleeping.
Melatonin is the hormone responsible for regulating the body’s biological
clock. It is produced by the pineal gland, which is located in the brain.
Melatonin helps to regulate sleep. During daylight, the pineal gland in the
brain produces the neurotransmitter serotonin, but at night, the pineal gland
stops producing serotonin and instead makes melatonin. This melatonin release
helps trigger sleep.
It is largely thought that as people age, their bodies produce less melatonin.
Deficiencies can lead to insomnia. The production of melatonin varies according
to the amount of light you're exposed to; more melatonin is produced at night
than during the day, and your body produces more melatonin in a completely
dark room than in a dimly lit one.
Stress, illness, and aging are the culprits that can speed up this deficiency
in Melatonin. Recent research has shown that Melatonin is one of the most
powerful antioxidants. Melatonin's antioxidant properties may
help to stave off illnesses commonly related to aging, such as heart disease
and cataracts. The hormone may boost immune-system function as well, which
can weaken with age.
According to a handful
of preliminary studies. Individuals that are said to be suffering from
SAD (seasonal affective disorder) may experience a significant improvement
in mood if they take several tiny doses (0.1 mg) of melatonin in the afternoon.
Taken in small amounts,
Melatonin has been shown to lower pressure in the eyes thereby decreasing
ocular pressure. Since studies have only been done on healthy eyes, it is
uncertain whether melatonin would be an effective treatment for glaucoma.
Low melatonin levels may cause the failure of neurotransmitters, leading
to Parkinson’s Disease. Supplementation may prevent this from occurring.
