Key to a longer life?

In the constant pursuit of ways to prolong our life span, melatonin appears to hold promising prospects for the future. Researchers have conducted animal studies showing that mice who were fed melatonin in their drinking water remained substantially more youthful than those who were not.

In a study of 20 nineteen-month-old mice, half of whom were fed melatonin, the average life span of the melatonin-fed mice increased by a stunning 20 per cent compared with those mice who did not receive the invigorating nutrient. The researchers also noticed how those mice who were given melatonin did not demonstrate the typical signs of ageing. In other words, these mice did not lose weight, slow down their pace, or sit in the characteristic humped posture that is typical of ageing mice. Also, they did not develop dry patchy fur but remained glossy and plump.

Although mouse research does not necessary relate to humans, scientists believe there are some key points that account for melatonin’s anti-ageing properties.

• Through its ability to scavenge free radicals, melatonin may prevent or reduce the severity of many different diseases such as cancer, Alzheimer’s, arthritis and Parkinson’s.
• By counteracting the effects of ageing on the immune system, melatonin may provide added protection against virus, bacteria and parasites, making elderly people considerably more resistant
• By providing a more youthful pattern of sleep, melatonin may allow us to benefit significantly more from the nightly cycle of rest and repair
• Regular intake of small doses of melatonin may stabilise our circadian rhythm, helping to counteract ageing of the body clock, thereby helping to keep our biological rhythms “in tune”
• Melatonin may result in a healthier cardiovascular system, lowering blood pressure, cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of coronary heart disease.