Warum sollte man Alkohol und Melatonin nicht zusammen einnehmen?

Why shouldn't you take alcohol and melatonin together?

Melatonin is a popular dietary supplement that is often used to promote healthy sleep. On the other hand, alcohol is a widespread luxury food that many people find relaxing. But the simultaneous taking of alcohol and melatonin can have negative effects on the body and is not recommended. In this article we explain why this combination is problematic and what risks it carries.

What is melatonin?

Melatonin is a natural hormone that is produced by the pineal gland in the brain. It plays a crucial role in regulating the sleep-wake rhythm and signals to the body when it is time to sleep. Many people use melatonin preparations to treat sleep disorders, especially in jet lag or stress.

How does alcohol affect sleep?

Alcohol is often incorrectly regarded as sleep aid because it can initially have a relaxing effect. But this effect is deceptive. Alcohol:

  • Disturbs the sleep architecture, especially the REM sleep phases that are important for relaxation.
  • Can worsen the quality of sleep and lead to frequent nocturnal awakening.
  • Promotes dehydration and increases snoring or sleep apnea.

Why is the combination of alcohol and melatonin problematic?

1. Deteriorated effect of melatonin

Alcohol can affect the effectiveness of melatonin. Since alcohol disturbs the natural processes of the sleep cycle, melatonin cannot fully develop its sleep -promoting effect. This often means that the hoped -for benefit of melatonin is not achieved.

2. Increased fatigue and confusion

The sedative effect of melatonin can be reinforced by alcohol. This can lead to excessive sleepiness, confusion and an increased risk of accidents, especially if you have to be active after taking alcohol and melatonin (e.g. driving or operating machines).

3. Danger of side effects

The combination can increase side effects, including:

  • Dizziness
  • nausea
  • Headache
  • Heart rhythm disorders

4. Liver pollution

Both alcohol and melatonin are broken down by the liver. At the same time, the liver can also burden the liver and possibly slow the detoxification, which can increase the effect of alcohol and cause unwanted side effects.

5. Extension of the sleep time

While melatonin is supposed to promote sleep, alcohol can have the opposite effect and make it difficult to fall asleep, which destroy the purpose of taking melatonin.

What can happen if alcohol and melatonin are taken together?

Recommendations for the safe use of melatonin

  • Avoid alcohol before and after taking melatonin. Give your body at least 2-3 hours to break down alcohol before taking melatonin.
  • Stick to the recommended dosage. Excessive consumption of melatonin can also have side effects.
  • Place on healthy sleeping habits. A dark, calm and cool environment can promote sleep without the need for alcohol or melatonin.

Conclusion

At the same time taking alcohol and melatonin is not a good idea. Alcohol can affect the effect of melatonin, worsen sleep quality and increase side effects. If you use melatonin to improve your sleep, you should avoid alcohol to achieve the best possible effect. A conscious handling of both substances is crucial to protect your health and treat sleep problems effectively.

Your health begins with good decisions - avoid this risky combination!

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