Sleep Aid Alert: Melatonin's Hidden Heart Risks

Sleep troubles are common, with over 30% of people in Pennsylvania not getting enough shut-eye. Many turn to melatonin, a popular sleep supplement, for relief. But new research from the American Heart Association suggests that long-term melatonin use might not be as safe as once thought. The study, which looked at over 130, 000 adults with insomnia, found a link between melatonin use and a higher risk of heart failure or death. Those who took melatonin for at least a year had about a 90% higher risk of heart failure compared to non-users. They were also nearly 3. 5 times more likely to be hospitalized for heart failure and twice as likely to die from any cause. Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate sleep. It's widely available as an over-the-counter supplement in the U. S. , but in other countries, like the UK, it's only available by prescription. The study's lead author, Dr. Ekenedilichukwu Nnadi, noted that while the study couldn't prove a direct cause-and-effect relationship, the findings were striking. However, not everyone is convinced. Some experts point out that the study didn't track whether participants' sleep improved with melatonin use. They argue that without this information, it's hard to say if melatonin directly causes heart problems. So, what's the takeaway? More research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of melatonin. In the meantime, experts recommend focusing on good sleep habits, like keeping screens out of the bedroom and practicing mindfulness.