How to Ensure Your Kids Sleep Through the Night

Parents dream of uninterrupted nighttime sleep for their kids and are willing to try anything to achieve it. Melatonin supplements seem effective and are often given to children, but this carries a significant risk.

In the U.S., melatonin is available over the counter, unlike in some countries where it's prescription-only. This easy access might lead to misuse, especially in children and teens. Healthy, independent sleep habits are built through routines, not quick fixes.

Young children produce more melatonin than adults, requiring more sleep. As they grow, melatonin levels drop. This hormone increases with darkness and decreases with morning light. Light exposure, particularly blue light from screens, disrupts melatonin production.

Ensuring early bedtimes for children helps balance melatonin production, easing their ability to fall asleep. Furthermore, natural production of melatonin enhances memory and improves learning and processing skills.

Melatonin boosts immune response and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

The pineal gland, located in the brain's center, oversees melatonin production. When the body receives melatonin—from any source—the gland may cease production. Overuse of supplements can weaken this natural process, making it hard for the body to restart its own production when supplementation stops. Parents must recognize the potential long-lasting damage this can cause and act wisely.

The body can develop tolerance to any quick fix. Starting with low doses often leads to needing more, which can further disrupt natural processes.

Tryptophan, an amino acid, aids in natural melatonin production. Foods rich in tryptophan include beans, hazelnuts, bananas, oatmeal, cherries, eggs, and whole grains. Consuming these foods throughout the day, particularly in the evening, enhances natural melatonin levels.

Zohara Shavit is a naturopath N.D, experienced in iris diagnosis with years of experience in treatment and workshop guidance. For a free workshop, call 073-2221290