Melatonin, a popular over-the-counter sleep aid, has gained attention for potentially causing vivid nightmares.
While there's no direct link, experts suggest that melatonin's impact on sleep stages, particularly longer periods of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, may lead to more intense dreams. This can be especially concerning for those who have difficulty falling asleep and, as a result, might not experience enough REM sleep during their usual short sleep periods.
Melatonin helps keep individuals asleep for longer, thus allowing for more vivid or intense dream content during REM sleep. To mitigate melatonin nightmares, experts recommend:
- establishing a consistent sleep schedule
- exercising regularly
- adjusting dietary habits
- reducing screen time
- keeping the bedroom cool
If nightmares persist, a doctor's consultation is advised to identify the root cause and explore non-pharmacological treatment options such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Regardless, ensuring restful sleep is essential, and it's essential to find a suitable solution that works for you.
Source: MSN
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