Does Heart Failure Risk Increase with Melatonin Abuse?

“Observational Studies Fuel New Anxieties Over Long-Term Use”

Melatonin is a naturally produced hormone that helps to regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle, by increasing during darkness and decreasing during daylight. According to a preliminary study presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2025 in New Orleans in the fall of 2025, long-term use of melatonin supplements used to address chronic insomnia was associated with a higher risk of heart failure, heart failure hospitalization, and death from any cause.

These observational studies focused on long-term lifestyle habits and environmental exposures linked to participant’s daily behaviors who used melatonin for extended periods of time to treat chronic insomnia or other sleep disorders. The AHA found that long-term use of melatonin supplements for over a year was associated with a 90% higher risk of heart failure, 3.5 times increase in hospitalizations, and double the mortality risk compared to non-users.

It is important to note that the study suggests an association rather than a direct cause-and-effect, which means the underlying causes of chronic insomnia or other health issues could have also played a role in statistical results reported. Nonetheless, health experts advise that melatonin is not a sedative (it is a sleep-wake cycle regulator) and is only intended for short-term use to improve acute insomnia related to working night shifts or recovering from jet-lag where your body’s circadian rhythm is disrupted and your sleep-wake cycle needs to be restored.

Important associations and causation of health risks...

Even medical experts at the American Heart Association urge caution when interpreting the results of their observational study, noting several critical factors that may explain such a link. The study was retrospective meaning it identified patterns but cannot confirm that melatonin was the cause of heart damage. In fact, severe insomnia itself is a known risk factor for cardiovascular issues like high blood pressure and heart disease. Additionally, sleep disorders like sleep apnea or early symptoms of heart failure may cause people to rely heavily on melatonin supplements, as they unintentionally delay the diagnosis of an existing heart condition. So, all drivers of heart failure risk must considered.

Daytime Protein Intake Promotes a Good Night’s Sleep

Melatonin is the hormone that your brain produces in response to darkness. Although it is not a sedative, the hormone helps reset your sleep-wake cycle to be in-sync with your circadian rhythms as you sleep. Whereas melatonin is naturally produced by the body, you can consume protein-forward foods like almonds that contain melatonin. Additionally, protein sources like cottage cheese and Greek yogurt also contain tryptophan that increases melatonin production. Whether you are consuming melatonin-rich food or supplements, do so 30 minutes before bed.

Magnesium is an essential mineral that serves as an important electrolyte for over 300 biochemical reactions in the human body, including nerve function, muscle contraction, and blood pressure regulation. Daily intake of this protein is essential, with recommended amounts usually achieved through a personalized menu plan that is rich in leafy greens, nuts, and seeds. Magnesium naturally acts as a helper molecule that converts food into energy, helps muscles contract and relax, as well as supports the nervous system by regulating neurotransmitters.

Whole foods that have been processed or refined as little as possible are packed with nutrients and should be consumed during the day to aid sleep at night. Protein-first foods contribute to your overall metabolic balance and prove helpful when it’s time to get critical rest at night when darkness approaches. Conversely, sugary or overly processed comfort foods or late-night snacks can lead to unwanted spikes in blood sugar levels. To make the meal more vegetable-friendly, protein options include leafy greens, edamame, tofu and tempeh.

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Whether it is stress, anxiety or something else, a lot of people are not sleeping that well these days. Whereas pinpointing the cause can be tough, there is a link between what you eat and drink throughout the day. Popular protein-forward foods for sleep-snacks include yogurt and nuts where the amino acid tryptophan is converted to serotonin to promote relaxation and melatonin to improve the quality of sleep. If you’re struggling to sleep, contact Metabolic Research Center Overland Park today. One of our weight loss coaches will be in touch to discuss how you can get a good night’s sleep and still enjoy the weight loss benefits of a protein-first, low carb diet. After all, the quality of sleep you get isn’t just about getting through your daily grind; your gut-brain-melatonin axis is directly linked to increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, kidney disease, stroke, and obesity.

*NOTE: Generally speaking, melatonin supplementation should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women, those with autoimmune disease, or individuals taking immunosuppressants, blood thinners, or certain blood pressure medications.