Do you realize that melatonin, a hormone produced by the body, is crucial to your sleep? It’s the hormone that regulates the sleep-wake cycle in our bodies. When the sun sets and the evening begins to fall, our bodies produce more melatonin, which promotes a healthy circadian rhythm and thus good sleep. Let’s look at how melatonin influences our sleeping patterns.
What is Melatonin, and how does it work?
Melatonin is a hormone that is created naturally in your body and is produced by the pineal gland in your brain. In addition, it can be found in the eyes, intestines, and bone marrow. Melatonin, sometimes known as the sleep hormone,’ does not knock you out into a peaceful slumber; rather, it sends a signal to your body that it is evening, making it easier to sleep. Melatonin is an antioxidant that can help with eye health, heartburn relief, tinnitus relief, and male growth hormone stimulation, among other things.
What Function Does Melatonin Play in Sleep?
Melatonin works by improving your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, or circadian rhythm. It tells you when you should go to bed, eat, and wake up. After all, getting a good night’s sleep is essential for overall wellness.
The Advantages of Melatonin
Melatonin regulates blood pressure, hormone levels, and body temperature, among other things. Melatonin binds to the receptors in your body that help you relax, so when it gets dark outside, it sends your body to sleep. It binds to these receptors in the brain, lowering neuronal activity and dopamine levels. The chemical dopamine keeps you awake at night.
Those who do not produce enough melatonin at night are more prone to experience sleep problems. Smoking, blue light exposure before bedtime, stress, working shifts, and aging are only a few of the causes of insufficient melatonin production.