As a baby and child sleep consultant, I've recently noticed an increasing number of adverts on Facebook promoting melatonin gummies and patches to improve children's sleep. This trend has me worried. These companies sell 'quick' and unregulated methods to improve sleep without considering the potential risks.
It's tempting to seek quick fixes, and melatonin supplements—especially gummies and patches—often seem like a convenient solution. However, purchasing melatonin products online can pose significant risks, particularly for babies and children.
The Convenience and Appeal of Online Melatonin
The convenience of online shopping, combined with the appealing marketing of melatonin gummies and patches, makes them an attractive option for parents seeking to help their children sleep better. These products often promise a natural and effective sleep aid without having to do much as a parent, but the reality can be quite different.
The Sleep Charity’s Warning
The Sleep Charity, a charity dedicated to promoting better sleep health, has issued a post on social media (2024) cautioning against the use of online melatonin supplements for children. Here are the key concerns:
➡️ Variability in Content: Research evidence has shown that there is significant variability in the content of melatonin “gummies” manufactured in the US and available online. A study measuring the content of 25 brands of melatonin gummies found that some products contained up to 4 times the dose stated on the label. This inconsistency can lead to unintended overdosing, posing serious health risks to children.
➡️ Serotonin and CBD Contamination: Melatonin gummies can contain high levels of serotonin or CBD. Alarmingly, deaths in children taking melatonin gummies have been reported in the US as a result of serotonin overdose. These contaminants can have severe and unpredictable effects on a child's developing body and brain.
➡️ Medical Supervision Required: Melatonin should only be taken under medical supervision and only if behavioural interventions have been offered first. Self-medicating with melatonin, especially in children, can lead to serious health risks and may mask underlying sleep issues that need to be addressed differently.
➡️ Campaigning for Regulation: The Sleep Charity, along with Sheffield Children’s Hospital, FIS, Kids, and other experts, are actively campaigning to advise the UK government to restrict the availability of online melatonin products. This move aims to protect consumers, especially children, from the dangers of unregulated supplements.
The Better Approach to Sleep Health for Babies and Children
Given these concerns, it is crucial to address sleep issues in children through safer and more sustainable methods:
Consult a Professional: A sleep consultant can provide personalised support to help your child (or you) sleep better, without the need for medication. They work closely with you to identify possible issues and reasons for not sleeping well and develop effective strategies to improve sleep.
Focusing on Sleep Hygiene: Improving sleep hygiene is often the most effective way to enhance sleep quality. This includes maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants like electronic devices before bedtime.
Behavioural Interventions: Implementing consistent bedtime routines and gentle sleep training techniques can help children develop healthy sleep habits. These methods are safe and effective for long-term sleep improvement.
Lifestyle Changes: Ensuring that children get regular physical activity, manage stress effectively, and consume a balanced diet can significantly improve sleep quality. These lifestyle changes promote overall health and well-being, contributing to better sleep naturally.
Conclusion
While the allure of online melatonin gummies and patches is strong, especially for desperate parents, it's essential to approach these products with caution. The risks associated with unregulated supplements, inaccurate dosages, and potential contaminants highlight the need for safer, evidence-based approaches to improving children's sleep. By consulting healthcare professionals and focusing on healthy sleep habits, parents can help their children achieve better, more sustainable sleep without relying on potentially harmful quick fixes.
For more information and support on sleep health, please visit the Sleep Charity’s website or book a free sleep assessment to support you in improving your little one's sleep. Remember, achieving good sleep for your child is a journey best undertaken with reliable guidance and healthy practices.
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