💊Daily Pill: What is Melatonin?
And how does it work?
The Daily Pill is a series of very short daily posts where I share the definition of a medical term I think we should all know. Read it every morning and build up your medical vocabulary.
🧬 Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. For this reason, melatonin is referred to as the sleep hormone - its levels rise in the evening, signaling to your body that it's time to sleep, and decrease in the morning, helping you wake up. The production of melatonin is influenced by light exposure, with darkness promoting its release and light inhibiting it.
🤔Why you need to know:
Adequate melatonin production is essential for maintaining a regular sleep-wake cycle, which is vital for cognitive function, mood regulation, and physical health. This is the reason why excessive exposure to artificial light, especially blue light from screens, can disrupt melatonin production and lead to sleep disturbances. To support healthy melatonin levels, limit screen time before bed, use dim lighting in the evening, and consider natural melatonin supplements if needed. Improving melatonin production can enhance your sleep quality, boost your immune system, and improve overall well-being.
🧠Trivia:
Tart cherries are one of the few natural foods that contain melatonin.
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