Last Updated on December 3, 2022 by theworldofsleepstaff
Tart cherry juice and melatonin are popular natural remedies for improving sleep quality. But which one is the best choice for you and your individual needs?
The reality is that because both tart cherry juice and melatonin have the potential to help people improve their sleep quality, helping them wake up feeling refreshed. However there are some important differences too, ones that make melatonin the likely better choice if you’re suffering from jet lag or sleep issues due to shift-work, whilst tart cherry juice may be better for more chronic sleep issues.
However that’s just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the similarities, differences, and side effects of both these sleep aids.
Luckily we help navigate the choppy waters in the battle between tart cherry juice and melatonin right here, so you can make the right decision for your health.
Note: This content was only written as a reference, using third-party background information. It is not medical advice; As always, it is essential to do your research and speak with a healthcare provider if you have questions or before taking any new supplement.
CONTENTS:
- Which Is Better For Sleep?
- Four Key Similarities
- Four Key Differences
- Should I Take Tart Cherry Juice And Melatonin Together?
- The Side Effects Compared
- Top Tips When Taking Tart Cherry Juice For Sleep
- Top Tips When Taking Melatonin For Sleep
- Things To Look For When Choosing A Tart Cherry Juice Supplement
- Things To Look For When Choosing A Melatonin Supplement
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Which Is Better?
Tart Cherry Juice vs Melatonin: Which Is Better For Sleep?
Both tart cherry juice and melatonin can provide an array of benefits, from promoting relaxation to improving the quality of your sleep.
Melatonin has a long-standing reputation as a natural sleep aid due to its ability to regulate circadian rhythms. Whilst tart cherry juice is becoming increasingly popular for its high concentration of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality.
But that said, tart cherry juice is probably the better choice for those looking for a more natural remedy to improve sleep quality. It actually contains melatonin but in smaller amounts than found in supplements, making it a gentler option that still provides the benefits of improved rest.
Additionally, tart cherry juice can provide other added health benefits, such as reducing joint pain, improving cardiovascular health, and providing anti-ageing benefits.
On the other hand, melatonin is an excellent option for those who suffer from more severe insomnia or jet lag. It contains active melatonin that is quickly absorbed into your body and helps regulate your circadian rhythms more efficiently.
However, it should be taken cautiously as it can cause side effects such as headaches, nausea, and daytime fatigue.
Recommended: 30 Tips On How To Get Better Sleep Naturally
Tart Cherry Juice vs Melatonin For Sleep: Four Key Similarities
1. Both Tart Cherry Juice & Melatonin Are Natural Sleep Aids
Tart cherry juice is an all-natural beverage from cherries that contain antioxidant compounds. Meanwhile, melatonin is a hormone naturally produced by the pineal gland in the brain, which helps regulate wake/sleep cycles.
2. Both Tart Cherry Juice & Melatonin Can Help Improve Sleep Quality
Clinical studies have found that tart cherry juice may increase the duration and quality of sleep and reduce insomnia symptoms.
Similarly, a study found that melatonin has also been proven to improve sleep latency and efficiency and reduce nighttime awakenings.
3. Both Tart Cherry Juice & Melatonin Are Generally Safe
When used as directed, no severe side effects have been associated with either tart cherry juice or melatonin.
However, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before taking either of these supplements, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
4. Both Tart Cherry Juice & Melatonin Are Widely Available
Both tart cherry juice and melatonin are widely available in stores and online. In addition, they are not expensive supplements, making them an accessible option for many people.
Despite these similarities between tart cherry juice and melatonin as sleep aids, some differences should be considered before making a decision. Read on to discover the differences between tart cherry juice and melatonin for sleep.
The Four Key Differences Between Tart Cherry Juice and Melatonin For Sleep
1. Tart Cherry Juice Contains Antioxidants, While Melatonin Does Not
Tart cherry juice contains potent antioxidant compounds that help reduce inflammation, which can benefit overall health.
Unfortunately, melatonin does not contain any antioxidants.
2. Tart Cherry Juice Might Help Reduce Insomnia, But Melatonin May Be Better At Getting You To Sleep
Tart cherry juice has been found to reduce the severity of insomnia symptoms.
But melatonin is known explicitly for reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, which can be helpful for people who suffer from sleep latency issues.
3. Tart Cherry Juice Can Help Overall Health And Has More Added Benefits Than Melatonin
Tart cherry juice has been linked to many potential health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and improving heart health.
In comparison, melatonin is thought to have fewer other added benefits.
4. Melatonin May Be Better For Jet Lag, Tart Cherry Juice For Insomnia
Studies suggest that tart cherry juice can potentially improve symptoms of chronic insomnia.
However, melatonin is more commonly used to treat symptoms of jet lag and shift work sleep disorder, and is known for being effective at that.
Should I Take Tart Cherry Juice And Melatonin Together?
While some people do take tart cherry juice and melatonin together, it is generally not recommended as they work similarly and taking them together may lead to increased side effects.
If you are considering taking one or the other, consult your healthcare provider about what is the most suitable for you.
Both tart cherry juice and melatonin can be effective natural sleep aids. But the best way to determine which is right for you is to consult a healthcare professional and consider your individual needs. Discussing any supplements with a healthcare provider before taking them is essential.
Melatonin vs Tart Cherry Juice: The Side Effects
Tart Cherry Juice: Side Effects
1. Headaches
It is said that tart cherry juice can cause headaches in people who are sensitive to certain types of foods.
2. Gastrointestinal Issues
It is said that drinking tart cherry juice might lead to gastrointestinal issues, such as nausea, vomiting and bloating.
3. Allergic Reactions
People allergic to cherries might experience allergic reactions after consuming tart cherry juice.
Melatonin: Side Effects
1. Headaches
Taking too much melatonin can lead to headaches in some people.
2. Nausea
In some cases, taking too much melatonin can lead to nausea and vomiting.
3. Dizziness
Taking too much melatonin can cause dizziness and disorientation in some people
4. Irritability
Experiencing irritability or restlessness after taking melatonin is not uncommon
Top Tips When Taking Tart Cherry Juice For Sleep
Tart cherry juice has long been used as a natural sleep aid, offering many people a way to get some restful shuteye without resorting to pharmaceuticals. But when taking tart cherry juice for sleep, a few tips can help you maximize the effects of this potent drink.
The first tip is to be consistent. Tart cherry juice is most effective when taken daily and at the same time each day for optimal health benefits. Try to find a schedule that works for you, whether in the morning or night and stick with it!
Another tip is to be mindful of your dosage. Overdosing on tart cherry juice can have the reverse effect, causing difficulty in sleeping. Start with a low dose when you’re first starting and build up as your body gets used to it.
Lastly, tart cherry juice may be most effective when combined with other natural sleep aids such as magnesium. This can help enhance the effects of the tart cherry juice for a deeper, more restful sleep.
Following these tips, you can make the most of your tart cherry juice and get the best possible sleep!
Top Tips When Taking Melatonin For Sleep
Melatonin is a popular natural sleep aid, offering many people a way to get some restful shuteye without using pharmaceuticals. But these tips below can help you get maximum benefit:
The first tip is to time it correctly. Melatonin should be taken between 30 minutes to 1 hour before you plan on actually falling asleep. This will help ensure the melatonin has time to kick in and do its job effectively.
Another tip is to be mindful of your dosage. Overdosing on melatonin can have the reverse effect, causing difficulty in sleeping. So start with a low dose when you’re first starting and build up as your body gets used to it.
Lastly, if you find that melatonin isn’t working, try supplementing with other natural sleep aids such as tart cherry juice or magnesium. This can help enhance the effects of melatonin for a deeper, more restful sleep.
Things To Look For When Choosing A Tart Cherry Juice Supplement
When choosing a tart cherry juice supplement, there are a few things to consider.
First and foremost, ensure the supplement is made from organic ingredients and free from preservatives or additives. Natural supplements will be more effective as they contain fewer “fillers” that may interfere with the product’s potency.
Next, look at the serving size. Tart cherry juice can be pretty potent, and if you’re not careful, it is easy to take too much resulting in difficulty sleeping. Start with a low dose when you’re starting out and gradually increase as your body gets used to it.
Lastly, look for a product that is high in antioxidants. Antioxidants help the body fight off toxins and free radicals, which can interfere with sleep. A good tart cherry juice supplement should be rich in antioxidants such as Vitamin C, E and A.
Things To Look For When Choosing A Melatonin Supplement For Sleep
When choosing a melatonin supplement, it is essential to consider the benefits and drawbacks of each one to make an informed decision.
Some things to look for when choosing a melatonin supplement include the following:
Potency – Different supplements have varying levels of potency. Check the label for exact dosages and compare them to ensure you’re getting the right amount.
Cost – Most melatonin supplements are inexpensive, but comparing costs between different brands and formulas is still essential.
Ingredients – Some melatonin supplements may contain additional ingredients, such as herbs or vitamins, which can influence their effectiveness. Check what other ingredients are included to understand the potential benefits and side effects better.
Safety – Melatonin is generally considered safe. However, reading reviews or asking your doctor about any potential risks associated with particular supplements is essential.
Ease of Use – Some melatonin supplements may come in pill form, while others are in liquid or gummy forms, making them more convenient to take. Consider which delivery method works best for you and your lifestyle.
Effectiveness – Most melatonin supplements are effective at helping people fall asleep faster, but some may be more effective than others depending on the individual’s needs. It’s essential to read reviews and speak with your doctor about the effectiveness of each supplement to make an informed decision.
Overall, it’s essential to research and consider all the above factors when choosing a melatonin supplement for sleep. Then, with the correct information, you can find the perfect supplement to help you get the restful sleep you need.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tart Cherry Juice And Melatonin
Tart cherry juice and melatonin are two popular sleep aids, but it can be challenging to know which one might be best for you. To help guide you in your research, here is a list of commonly asked questions about tart cherry juice and melatonin and their respective qualities in helping you get better sleep.
Q: Does tart cherry juice help with insomnia?
A: Some studies have found that tart cherry juice can help reduce insomnia symptoms in some individuals. However, more research is needed to confirm its efficacy as an insomnia treatment.
If you’re looking for a sleep aid to combat your insomnia, try tart cherry juice or melatonin.
Q: Does melatonin help with jet lag?
A: Yes, some studies have found that taking a low dose of melatonin can help reduce the symptoms of jet lag. However, more research is needed before it can be definitively concluded that melatonin is a viable treatment for jet lag.
Tart Cherry Juice Vs Melatonin: Which Is Better?
Ultimately, the choice between tart cherry juice and melatonin depends on your needs.
Both provide significant benefits for improving sleep quality and relaxation. Still, the one that works best for you will depend on how severe your insomnia is and what other health benefits you’re looking for.
If you suffer from more severe insomnia, melatonin may be your best choice. However, tart cherry juice is an excellent alternative if you seek a gentler option with added health benefits. Whichever sleep aid you choose, make sure to speak to your doctor before taking any supplements or changing your diet
Tart cherry juice and melatonin provide many great benefits for improving sleep quality, but it’s essential to consider your individual needs when choosing a sleep aid. With proper use, you can find the correct remedy that works best for you and your lifestyle. Good luck!