Best-known as a sleep-inducing supplement, melatonin has some surprising benefits.

Known as N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine, melatonin is an indoleamine neurotransmitter, which is synthesized from the essential amino acid tryptophan and secreted by the pineal gland (in the brain). Melatonin synchronizes the body's internal clock (or circadian rhythms) and is released in abundance at night or in states of darkness. Because of its connection with light/dark cycles and the fact that it can help induce sleep (when taken before bed), most people consider melatonin supplements only when they are trying to combat jet lag or insomnia.

Maybe. While we grew up thinking Vitamin A-rich carrots are good for vision, new research suggests that you may also need to look to citrus fruits and other vitamin C - rich foods to maintain your eyes' good health. A recent study by researchers at King's College London highlighted that your diet, especially vitamin C, may play an important role in protecting against cataracts.

Cataracts cloud the lens of your eyes and can be a life-altering condition that inhibits individuals from appropriately seeing the world around them. The ability to clearly see can affect even the simplest tasks of everyday living. Reading, driving a car, watching television, and making your meals can all become very cloudy as cataracts inhibit your ability to perform these activities.

Pectin is a type of fiber that is found in all plant cell walls and tissues. While all may contain pectin, the amount and concentration of pectin varies among plants. Apples contain a particularly high amount of pectin, according to dietaryfiberfood.com, and the highly concentrated apple pectin delivers many health benefits. Apple pectin is available in the skin and pulp of fresh apples or as a dietary supplement.

Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate, one of the B vitamins. You can normally get enough folate naturally in your diet. However, folic acid supplements are needed in the following situations: