Long-Term Melatonin Use Linked to 90% Heart Failure Risk

Long-Term Melatonin Use Linked to 90% Heart Failure Risk

Long-Term Melatonin Use Linked to 90% Heart Failure Risk

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Insight into Melatonin and Heart Failure Risk

Ensuring you get enough sleep each night is crucial for your overall health, particularly your cardiovascular health. The American Heart Association emphasizes that sleep disorders can increase the risk of various heart-related issues such as obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, stress, and chronic inflammation. For individuals suffering from chronic insomnia, the risks are even higher, including a 45% increased risk of cardiovascular disease and a 54% higher risk of stroke within a short period.

However, a recent study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2025 in New Orleans has shed light on a potential risk associated with long-term use of melatonin, a natural sleep aid commonly used by individuals with insomnia. The study examined health records from over 131,000 middle-aged individuals diagnosed with chronic insomnia, with 65,000 of them reporting taking melatonin for more than a year. The findings revealed a startling statistic: adults taking melatonin for at least a year were 90% more likely to develop heart failure later on compared to those who had never taken melatonin.

Lead researcher Ekenedilichukwu Nnadi, MD, expressed surprise at the significant increase in heart failure risk associated with melatonin use, emphasizing the need for further investigation and caution when using sleep aids for extended periods. Heart failure, a condition affecting millions of adults in the United States, occurs when the heart is unable to pump enough oxygen-rich blood to meet the body's needs, leading to a buildup of blood in various parts of the body.

While the study highlights a concerning association between melatonin use and heart failure risk, it's essential to note that the absolute risk in both groups was relatively low. Over the five-year study period, 4.6% of melatonin users developed heart failure, compared to 2.7% of non-users. Additionally, the researchers did not establish causality between melatonin and heart failure, only an association.

Given the widespread use of melatonin as a sleep aid, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the potential risks of long-term use. Marie-Pierre St-Onge, a sleep expert at Columbia University, warns against chronic use of melatonin without a proper indication, emphasizing the need for informed decision-making when it comes to sleep aids.

In conclusion, the study serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the potential risks associated with commonly used supplements such as melatonin. While the findings may be alarming, it is essential to consult with healthcare professionals before starting any long-term sleep aid regimen to ensure the best possible outcomes for your health.

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The post Doctors: Taking Melatonin for This Long Was Just Linked to a 90% Increase in Heart Failure Risk appeared first on The Healthy.

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Hi, I’m Ciro Irmici, an entrepreneur and investor from San Severo, Italy. My passions range from investments (stocks, crypto, dividends) to automation and creating businesses that help people. I believe in building things that matter, like a gym for all and a theatre for people to enjoy music. I love learning and sharing what I learn: how to create eBooks, audiobooks, and other digital products. I’m also deeply into fitness (gym, running, jump rope) and creativity (painting, music, design). My ultimate goal? To reach financial freedom and help others achieve their dreams.

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