Nutraceuticals and nootropics for anti-aging

Melatonin improves mental condition of Alzheimer’s and SAD patients.

Melatonin, a hormone produced by the brain’s pineal gland, is usually thought of as a regulator of the sleep-wake cycle, and as an antioxidant. This substance, however, has many other effects in the body. So, it is no surprise to find that melatonin supplements may be useful in treating a variety of conditions besides jet-lag.

Recent studies have turned up evidence (or confirmed previous evidence) that melatonin is a useful supplement for Alzheimer’s patients and for people suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) — the depression some people get from living in places where winter daytimes are short (i.e., more than half of this planet).

In the Alzheimer’s study, 3 mg of melatonin was adminstered at 8:30 p.m. each evening. Patients on melatonin slept significantly better than those on placebo, and had higher scores on tests of cognitive and non-cognitive function.

Link to the medical abstract:

Double Blind Study of Melatonin Effects on the Sleep-wake Rhythm, Cognitive and Non-cognitive Functions in Alzheimer Type Dementia.

In the SAD study, 2 mg of melatonin was administered 2 hours before bedtime. The researchers conclude that “Melatonin administration significantly improved the quality of sleep and vitality.”

Link to the medical abstract:

Effect of controlled-release melatonin on sleep quality, mood, and quality of life in subjects with seasonal or weather-associated changes in mood and behaviour.