Melatonin- More Than Just A Sleep Hormone

You probably know that Melatonin is a sleep hormone. But it is actually much more than that. Here are some of the ways in which melatonin affects our body

1. Regulates sleep-wake cycle: Melatonin plays a critical role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm. It helps to regulate the body's internal clock by promoting sleepiness at night and wakefulness during the day. It is especially effective at regulating sleep patterns when taken at the same time each day.

2. Reduces inflammation: Melatonin has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the gut. This may be beneficial for people with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and other digestive disorders.

3. Regulates gut motility: Melatonin has been shown to regulate the motility of the digestive tract, which is important for the proper digestion and absorption of nutrients. It can help to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.

4. Protects against oxidative stress: Melatonin is a potent antioxidant, which means it can help to protect against oxidative stress in the gut. Oxidative stress is a process that damages cells and can lead to inflammation and other health problems.

5. Improves gut barrier function: Melatonin may help to improve the integrity of the gut barrier, which is important for preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. This may be beneficial for people with leaky gut syndrome and other gut-related conditions.

6. Modulates gut microbiota: Melatonin has been shown to have a modulatory effect on gut microbiota, which are the trillions of bacteria that live in the gut. This may be beneficial for overall gut health and immune function.

7. Anti Aging: Melatonin has been studied for its potential anti-aging effects due to its antioxidant properties and its ability to regulate various biological processes in the body. Melatonin is a potent antioxidant that helps to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that can cause oxidative stress, which can lead to aging and age-related diseases.

8. Regulates the production of sex hormones: Melatonin has been found to regulate the production of sex hormones such as estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. It can either increase or decrease the production of these hormones depending on the timing and amount of melatonin produced.

9. Regulates cortisol production: Melatonin has been shown to regulate the production of cortisol, which is a stress hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Melatonin has been found to reduce cortisol levels at night, which is important for promoting restful sleep. However, during the daytime, melatonin has been found to increase cortisol levels, which may help to regulate the body's response to stress.

10. Secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone: Melatonin has been shown to inhibit the secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland. TSH is responsible for stimulating the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, which regulate metabolism and other bodily functions. Thus, inhibition of TSH secretion by melatonin could potentially lead to decreased thyroid hormone production and hypothyroidism.

Testing your Melatonin level

As a conclusion, Melatonin is more than a sleep clock. It is also a biological clock. In addition, it affects our gut health, hormones and adrenal glands.

Beacuse of its benefits, our Hormones +Stress +Sleep Test, also testing Melatonin levels

If you find that you have a Melatonin deficiency your personalized protocol will include recommendations, such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding screens and bright lights in the evening, and creating a relaxing bedtime routine, or even supplemments.

So, DON'T GUESS! TEST!

Schedule your free 15 minutes consultation meeting today!