ACT Science Question of the Day
Daily challenge for ACT Science. Test yourself and track progress.
Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland. It has a variety of functions, though its most pertinent function involves the sleep-wake cycle. Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness; therefore, melatonin levels are increased during sleep, and production tapers off when sunlight is perceived by the eyes. Scientists are performing many long-term studies on the effects of melatonin and some have concluded that melatonin actually does little to help sleep. Other scientists stand by the well-accepted idea that melatonin can be used to help people with sleeping issues.
Scientist 1:
Melatonin is a very effective supplement to help individuals with sleep disorders. People with sleep disorders generally have lower levels of melatonin; therefore, supplying them with melatonin supplements to compensate is a logical step. The only factor that needs to be changed when it comes to melatonin supplements is the dosage being used. Most melatonin supplements are sold in dosages ranging from 1 mg to 10 mg. However, studies show the most effective dosage is between 0.01 mg and 0.3 mg. The extremely high dosages of melatonin are the cause of the negative effects of melatonin supplements, not the melatonin itself.
Scientist 2:
Melatonin is not an effective or safe supplement for people with sleeping difficulties. The high dosages of melatonin being used can cause hallucinations and depression symptoms. In addition, we do not fully understand the role melatonin plays throughout the body. While we do know it is involved in sleep, new research is showing that melatonin plays a large role in the reproductive system. Melatonin is also involved in the release of hormones from the thyroid and sex glands. In fact, melatonin was banned from the United Kingdom as an over-the-counter supplement in 1996 and few doctors in the United Kingdom will prescribe melatonin supplements. The United States should follow this lead and be more wary of the effects of melatonin.
The main belief of Scientist 1 is: