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Online Education
Melatonin Clinical Applications
By Dr. Mona Fahoum
The physiological function of endogenous melatonin was first discovered in the 1950s when it was observed to have an important role in the regulation of the body’s circadian rhythm. Since that time, much has been discovered about the role of melatonin in the human body. Melatonin acts as a natural antioxidant, combating free radicals that cause cellular damage, and possesses the unique capability to diffuse across the blood-brain barrier. Understanding the full extent of how melatonin influences human physiology can offer practitioners valuable insight into potential treatment options for patients.
Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from naturopathic physician and melatonin expert Dr. Mona Fahoum about why melatonin is worthy of the significant attention it has received over the last several decades. Dr. Fahoum is sure to broaden your knowledge of the benefits of melatonin in this informative webinar.
Is Melatonin the “Next Vitamin D”? A Review of Emerging Science, Clinical Uses, Safety, and Dietary Supplements
By Dr. Mona Fahoum
Abstract
Melatonin has become a popular dietary supplement, most known as a chronobiotic, and for establishing healthy sleep. Research over the last decade into cancer, Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, fertility, PCOS, and many other conditions, combined with the COVID-19 pandemic, has led to greater awareness of melatonin because of its ability to act as a potent antioxidant, immune-active agent, and mitochondrial regulator. There are distinct similarities between melatonin and vitamin D in the depth and breadth of their impact on health. Both act as hormones, affect multiple systems through their immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory functions, are found in the skin, and are responsive to sunlight and darkness. In fact, there may be similarities between the widespread concern about vitamin D deficiency as a “sunlight deficiency” and reduced melatonin secretion as a result of “darkness deficiency” from overexposure to artificial blue light. The trend toward greater use of melatonin supplements has resulted in concern about its safety, especially higher doses, long-term use, and application in certain populations (e.g., children). This review aims to evaluate the recent data on melatonin’s mechanisms, its clinical uses beyond sleep, safety concerns, and a thorough summary of therapeutic considerations concerning dietary supplementation, including the different formats available (animal, synthetic, and phytomelatonin), dosing, timing, contraindications, and nutrient combinations.