Best Melatonin For Sleep In 2022
Melatonin is the hormone produced by the brain to induce oneâs sleep cycle. Its production is affected by the time of day and is produced more when it’s dark outside. Naturally, your body will produce melatonin each night, but some people produce less than others. People with insomnia, jet lag, delayed sleep phase disorder, circadian rhythm sleep disorder, and shift work disorder may benefit from taking a melatonin supplement to help them sleep.
Although many think that most melatonin supplements are the same, their ingredients and benefits may differ. There are many things you can look out for when shopping for a melatonin supplement to ensure you are not purchasing a fake product:
- Are the ingredients FDA approved?
- Was it manufactured in the United States?
- Has there been an FDA warning or recall on the product?
- Does the label make exaggerated claims?
Different products work better for some people than others. When shopping, youâll want to consider the form of melatonin you enjoy taking the most, how much money you want to spend, and how effective the supplement will be. We determined the best melatonin supplements for sleep based on the following criteria:
- Best Overall: Nature Made Melatonin
- Best for Quick-Release: Natrol Melatonin Advanced Maximum Strength
- Best for a Budget: Natureâs Bounty Melatonin Tablets
- Best Chewables: OLLY Melatonin Sleep Gummies
- Best Spray: Onnit Instant Melatonin Spray
Whats The Best Form Of Melatonin For Kids To Take
Melatonin supplements are available in a variety of forms, including capsules, chewable tablets, gummies, and liquids. The best form is the one that your child tolerates and can safely swallow.
That being said, its important to follow the instructions and dosing listed on the label, as these can vary among products.
The Best Melatonin For Sleep In 2022
Melatonin is a hormone that is naturally found in the body that regulates sleep cycles. People who have low levels of melatonin may have a difficult time falling and staying asleep at night. Melatonin supplements are used for people who have trouble sleeping or conditions like insomnia. We found that the best overall melatonin supplement is Nature Made Melatonin.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Melatonin Supplements
What’s the best dosage for adults?
There is no consensus on the best melatonin supplement dosage for adults, but some studies have recommended that the safest and most optimal dose is lower than what most melatonin supplements on the market contain. While doses as high as 10 mg of melatonin are available, higher concentrations are more likely to result in side effects such as drowsiness the next day.One double-blind, placebo-controlled study in adults aged 50 and older found the best results at a dose of 0.3 mg compared to 0.1 mg and 3 mg of melatonin. They concluded based on their research that the lowest, fully effective dose is the wisest choice for normalizing melatonin levels.
Does age affect melatonin levels?
Melatonin concentrations are the lowest during the first three months of life and then drastically increase, which could explain why newborn babies wake so often in the night. Levels peak between ages 1-3, then drop progressively throughout childhood by 80%.Changes to the circadian rhythm during adolescence are behind the shift seen in teenagers who suddenly stay up until the wee morning hours and have trouble waking before noon.During adulthood, levels continue to decline, dropping another 10% in later years. Difficulties with sleep are very common in older adults, possibly because of declining levels of hormones, including melatonin.
Where can I buy it?
Do Melatonin Gummies Really Work

Melatonin gummies appear to be as effective as melatonin tablets or pills, but not everyone stands to benefit from taking a melatonin supplement. Evidence suggests that melatonin may be effective for jet lag and delayed sleep-wake phase disorder, while research is sparse or conflicting for conditions like shift work disorder and insomnia.
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Does Melatonin Cause Hair Loss
There is no evidence that taking melatonin causes hair loss. In fact, melatonin has been shown to be helpful in treating people with alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease that causes hair loss. If you find that you are taking melatonin and start to experience symptoms of hair loss, stop taking melatonin and make an appointment with your doctor to find out why you’re losing hair.
Does Melatonin Stop You Pooping
The beneficial effects of melatonin were most apparent in terms of abdominal discomfort, stomach distension, and abnormal defecation sensation. The use of melatonin did not alter the frequency or form of bowel movement.
These results suggest that melatonin may have a role in the management of functional gastrointestinal disorders.
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The Best Melatonin For Kids
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- Best Chewable Melatonin for Kids:LUNA Kids Nested Naturals
Q: Which Melatonin Supplement Should I Choose
With so many melatonin supplements out there, deciding on the right one for you comes down to how high of a dosage you need and your preferred type of supplement.
There are melatonin capsules, sprays, gummies, lozenges, and liquid supplements, so whatever makes you feel most comfortable, you should go for.
Also, keep in mind there are unflavored and flavored options, plus different dosages, usually ranging from 0.5mg to 5mg.
When in doubt, its best to start with a low dosage and work your way up from there if you are still having trouble falling and staying asleep.
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What Dose Of Melatonin Is Safe For Kids
The AAP recommends discussing appropriate doses with your pediatrician before trying melatonin.
However, children generally respond to doses of 0.51 mg, 3090 minutes before bedtime. Some may need a higher dose, but, according to the AAP, most kids should not need doses higher than 36 mg .
Also keep in mind that melatonin supplements havent been found to be safe or effective for kids under age 1. Never give an infant melatonin unless under the direct supervision of a pediatrician or pediatric registered dietitian.
Q: Does Melatonin Make It Hard To Wake Up
You dont want to take too much melatonin if you have an early morning shift or workout scheduled.
Melatonin may make it difficult to wake up, and you might feel groggy if you try and force yourself awake before your body is ready.
For the easiest transition from nighttime to morning, give yourself enough time for a full night of sleep so the melatonin can work its magic and help you get better sleep.
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How Do Melatonin Gummies Work
Melatonin gummies are made with melatonin, a natural hormone that is produced by your body and helps to regulate the sleep-wake cycle. There is an increased risk of health problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and depression in individuals who do not get enough restful sleep on a regular basis.
Melatonin gummies will help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep through the night. When taken prior to bedtime, melatonin gummies can help you sleep up to six or seven hours at night.
How Much Melatonin To Take

To determine the best dose of melatonin, experts recommend starting with a small dose and gradually adding more only if the small dose isnt effective for you. This is to avoid taking more than you need, or worse, taking too much.
Ironically, taking too much melatonin can have the opposite effect of taking the right amount, in that it can cause anxiety and make it harder to fall asleep. For this reason, you dont want to start with a high dose when trying it for the first time.
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Does Age Affect Melatonin Levels
Melatonin concentrations are the lowest during the first three months of life and then drastically increase, which could explain why newborn babies wake so often in the night. Levels peak between ages 1-3, then drop progressively throughout childhood by 80%.
Changes to the circadian rhythm during adolescence are behind the shift seen in teenagers who suddenly stay up until the wee morning hours and have trouble waking before noon.
During adulthood, levels continue to decline, dropping another 10% in later years. Difficulties with sleep are very common in older adults, possibly because of declining levels of hormones, including melatonin.
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How Do You Use Melatonin Gummies
Consult with your health care practitioner before using melatonin gummies. Start out with a lower dose, such as 1mg, if you havent taken them before, 2 hours before bedtime. If you find you need a higher dose, slowly increase your dose over time. Be sure to avoid direct light as well as your phone before bedtime as well.
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Does Melatonin Have Side Effects
Melatonin has relatively few side effects compared to other sleeping medications, but some people may wake up feeling dizzy, groggy, nauseous, or with a headache. In most cases, these symptoms can be alleviated by taking smaller doses or not taking melatonin at all. In rare cases, some people may experience mood swings, agitation, nightmares, fatigue, palpitations, or skin irritation when taking melatonin.
There are also some concerns about the effects of melatonin on reproductive hormones in both women and men. More research is needed on the effects of long-term melatonin use and the use of melatonin supplements while pregnant or breastfeeding. Always check with your doctor before taking melatonin, especially if you have allergies or are currently taking other medication.
Melatonin Supplements Softgels & Gummies From Nature Made
A melatonin supplement is a great way to help with occasional sleeplessness at bedtime. Melatonin can also help regulate the circadian rhythm, giving the individual a more restful sleep.
If you want to achieve better sleep and mitigate occasional sleep issues, incorporating a melatonin supplement may be the right choice for you. At Nature Made, we make it easy for you to buy melatonin online and discover which products work best for you.
At Nature Made, we offer a wide range of sleep supplements right on our website. If you are thinking about taking melatonin as a dietary supplement, browse our different options so you can find the right melatonin product for you.
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Natrol Melatonin Time Release
Natrol Melatonin Time Release 5mg is a natural sleep aid containing 5mg of the sleep hormone melatonin in each capsule. With a special time-release formula, this supplement gets to work fast and lasts throughout the night.
Highlights:
- Good value for money
Whats in it: One serving contains:
- 5mg melatonin . This product is designed to be slowly released over time, over a period of 5-8 hours.
- 10mg vitamin B6
Who makes it: This product is made by Natrol, a large supplement manufacturer with over 35 years of industry experience. With a focus on uncompromising quality, Natrol has made it its mission to produce the highest quality supplements possible. Today, they are a large and successful company with a wide range of health products available.
Bottom line: Overall, if youre looking for a time-released melatonin supplement, this is the best one out there. Its also an affordable option, which comes from a great company.
Where to Buy Natrol Melatonin |
Best Melatonin Drinks For Anxiety And Sleep
Liquid supplements are absorbed almost as quickly as vaporizers, and theyre a better option for those who prefer not to use vaporizers .
Melo Sip Melatonin Powder
Melo Sip from MELO Labs is a powdered melatonin supplement with a blend of chamomile extract, valerian root extract, l-theanine, and GABA. All of these help to alleviate anxiety and promote sleep, making this a great overall sleep medicine. It also contains important micronutrients for sleep and hydration, including vitamins B, C, and D, potassium, and zinc.
Melo Sip contains no added sugar or sugar alcohols its sweetened only with monk fruit extract. It comes in three flavors that are all highly rated, and it can be mixed into water in any concentration youd like. It comes in individual packets, and each packet contains 4 mg of melatonin.
Beam Organics Melatonin Powder
The Dream Powder melatonin supplement from Beam Organics is unique: Its a packet you mix into hot water with a frother. In addition to melatonin, it contains reishi mushroom powder, l-theanine, magnesium, and nano hemp . A serving is one scoop, which contains 3 mg of melatonin.
It also contains cocoa powder, coconut milk powder, tapioca flour, natural flavors, sunflower lecithin, and monk fruit extract. The idea is that it mimics hot cocoa, but its much healthier than an actual cup of hot cocoa, with no added sugar plus helpful herbal supplements and magnesium.
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What Does Melatonin Do
A hormone secreted by the pineal gland in the brain as a response to darkness, melatonin helps maintain the bodys natural circadian rhythmsotherwise known as the sleep-wake cycleby making you sleepy. In addition to aiding your bodys sleep cycle, melatonin is also linked to female reproductive hormones and can have an impact on the timing and frequency of menstrual cycles. Though its a naturally occurring hormone, melatonin can also be found in dietary supplement form.
Discover A Natural, Restful Sleep
HUM Nutrition’s formula with melatonin + vitamin B6 helps adjust your internal body clock so you can fall asleep easier and sleep more. soundly for better daytime alertness
Helpful Benefits Of Taking Melatonin

Raise Declining Levels In Older People
As we age, normal levels of hormones in the body begin to decline, which may explain why many older adults suffer from insomnia. Some studies have found taking this natural supplement to be helpful in older populations who struggle with sleep disorders, such as insomnia.
A systematic review of 16 studies looking at the benefit of taking melatonin supplements for insomnia in those older than age 55 concluded that taking a low-dose, immediate-release version would be the best way to mimic the bodys natural rhythm.
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Manage Narcolepsy
Narcolepsy is a central disorder of hypersomnolence, or the excessive need for daytime sleep despite sufficient rest at night. Narcolepsy interferes with the circadian rhythm and REM cycles. Daytime sleepiness can impair quality of life and make it more difficult to engage in learning or work activities.
People who suffer from Narcolepsy have been found to have lower melatonin levels, and supplementing has been shown to balance levels of this hormone and reduce symptoms of daytime fatigue.
Strengthen The Immune System
Melatonin has many functions in the body beyond its role in regulating slumber. As an antioxidant, it helps to fight free radical damage that can cause many health problems, including cancer.
Treat Fibromyalgia Symptoms
Assist In Cardiovascular Diseases
Reduce Depression
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Q: Does Melatonin Work Immediately
Most melatonin starts working about 30 minutes after you take it.
Sprays and lozenges are a fast and direct way to get melatonin into the bloodstream quickly, although capsules and liquids also start working within half an hour.
The recommended time to take melatonin before bed will be listed on the products directions.
Make sure you check and follow the guidance for the best results and a great night of sleep.
Q: Does Melatonin Help With Belly Fat
Melatonin may help with the fat-burning process, which in turn may get rid of belly fat.
Melatonin should not be taken for the main purpose of burning belly fat, as its designed to help you fall asleep and get better rest.
This natural hormone supplement works best when combined with a healthy lifestyle and balanced diet.
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Why Trust Verywell Fit
A personal note on my recommendations: As a dietitian, I am careful to recommend supplements. In writing this article, I spent time reviewing the most current clinical research on melatonin supplementation and optimal doses, looking at multiple products and brands, and consulting with trusted peers in dietetics. I believe the melatonin supplements in the round-up are made by trusted brands and are composed of high-quality ingredients.Eliza Savage, MS, RD, CDN
What To Look For In Melatonin Gummies
Some supplements are more effective than others. In the case of melatonin gummies, effectiveness often comes down to the reliability of the supplement company to supply the advertised dosage of melatonin. However, other factors such as flavor, price per gummy, and determining the correct dosage are also important but are dependent on your unique circumstances. By considering your needs and choosing a reliable brand, youll be far more likely to select a melatonin gummy that works well for you.
Melatonin Content
Most melatonin gummies are available in doses of 1 to 3 milligrams, sometimes expressed as 1,000 to 3,000 micrograms . A serving is usually 1 to 2 gummies. While it might seem like a good idea to choose the highest dosage available when you need help sleeping, melatonin dosage is highly personal, and smaller amounts may have a better effect for many people.
Starting with a low dose and increasing it until you feel the effect is often a good way to find your appropriate dosage, but your doctor can offer advice specific to your personal circumstances.
Other Active Ingredients
Melatonin supplements often contain other active ingredients that may help promote sleep. Deciding whether to choose one of these varieties is primarily a matter of personal preference. However, the presence of additional components may make it more difficult to accurately determine what melatonin dosage is effective for your needs.
Price
Flavors & Gummy Types
Brand Reputation
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