Short Answer: If you accidentally ate expired melatonin, you may not have any serious health problems, but the supplement may not work as well as fresh melatonin.
Melatonin is a natural hormone that is mainly produced by your pineal gland in your brain.
It plays a role in managing your sleep-wake cycle and circadian rhythm.
Scientists still have a lot to learn about all of its effects on the human body.
Melatonin is also available as a supplement, typically as an oral tablet or capsule.
It is often used to treat jet lag, insomnia, or other sleep issues.
If you accidentally ate expired melatonin, you may not experience any harmful effects, but the supplement may not be as effective as fresh melatonin.
This is because melatonin is a drug, and thus has a limited shelf life.
Generally speaking, melatonin will be effective for up to two years after its expiration date.
However, the potency of the product may have significantly decreased over time, and the dose may not work as intended.
Melatonin can have some positive effects on sleep, but it is also associated with some potential side effects like headaches, dizziness, and nausea.
People should always talk to their doctor before taking any supplement, especially if they have a medical condition or are taking any other medication.
It is quite uncommon to eat expired melatonin, as most people would check the expiration date on the package before taking the supplement.
However, it is possible that some people may forget to do so, or may not notice the date if it is not clearly printed.
You can try to get rid of the expired melatonin by drinking plenty of water and eating some food.
If you experience any adverse reactions, such as allergic symptoms, severe headache, or vomiting, you should seek medical attention immediately.
If you do not feel any different, you may not need to worry, but you should avoid taking expired melatonin again.
To avoid accidental eating of expired melatonin, you should store your supplements in a cool, dry, and dark place, away from children and pets.
You should also check the expiration date regularly and discard any expired products safely.
You may want to buy melatonin supplements in smaller quantities, so that you can use them up before they expire.
Finally, remember, melatonin is a natural hormone that helps regulate your sleep cycle.
It is not a replacement for good sleep hygiene, such as getting enough light during the day, avoiding caffeine and alcohol at night, and following a consistent bedtime routine.
You should only take melatonin as directed on the label or as advised by your doctor.