Melatonin in Children
Melatonin is a common supplement given to children to help with sleep. Most parents think it is very safe because it is “natural.” At DHCC, we love all things that are natural and safe, but melatonin does not fall into that list for us. It is a supplement that should be taken in ONLY some cases, and rarely for kids. The good news is, there are plenty of other options out there.
Melatonin is released by our pineal gland to promote falling asleep. It is a hormone in our body. In addition to sleep, it influences the hormones for growth and development in adolescence. Melatonin helps with the initiation of sleep, but is not what helps children stay asleep.
Although melatonin does help kids fall asleep, it is not good at solving all sleep problems, and it does not come without risk.
As chiropractors, our biggest approach to sleep (and health) is getting to the root of the problem. Why is your child struggling to sleep? It could be colic, nightmares, poor sleep habits, micronutrient deficiencies, nervous system imbalances, or stress.
Melatonin is not meant for babies or children. Very few of the supplements out there are recommended or regulated for children. The dose is often set for adults, and the supplement industry in America is unregulated. This means, many providers of Melatonin are not necessarily proven to provide a great (or accurate) product.
There is very little research on children and melatonin because, as we already mentioned, it is a hormone!
Melatonin is a product of our circadian rhythm. This is a smart process of our body that prepares us for sleep. As we get ready for bed, our bodies produce melatonin to help us fall asleep. When we start taking a supplement of melatonin, it can lead to a disruption of the process.
When using melatonin, even if it seems to work at first, it often does not work long term. Our bodies are smart and therefore, it will regulate melatonin making regular use of the supplement not as effective after regular, consistent use.
Some studies suggest since melatonin is associated with growth hormones, it may disrupt puberty. More research on this is needed, but many studies do show that there are more superior methods to helping children sleep than melatonin. Here are a few:
Promoting circadian rhythm: Ways to promote circadian rhythm include consistent bedtimes, limit of screens and snacks before bed, and sleeping in a dark environment. Improving sleep hygiene can take work, but is well worth it. This will promote your child’s body to naturally produce melatonin for falling asleep.
Meditation and Mindfulness: Studies show that helping children be present, mindful, and do meditation before bedtime helps them fall asleep and stay asleep.
Chiropractic care: The number one thing parents and new adult patients report to us after beginning care, is that they are falling asleep better and have had an increase in their quality of sleep. At DHCC, we focus on balancing the nervous system and getting to the root of the problem to solve sleep issues.
Supplementing with magnesium for kids: Magnesium is a micronutrient that is thought to be deficient in many Americans due to the average diet. This nutrient naturally calms the nervous system, supports muscles, and helps aid in sleep.
If you have more questions, please reach out to us. We love answering questions and helping mom’s be empowered in their health!