All about Melatonin hormone- The Sleep Hormone

Ever wondered why melatonin hormone is called the sleep hormone? Why do some people sleep better than the rest? What are the factors that influence our sleep cycle? Many questions surround our understanding of sleep and its relation to melatonin. Melatonin is a naturally produced hormone by the pineal gland in our body. This hormone maintains the circadian rhythm of our body. Circadian rhythm is nothing but our body's ability to maintain a fixed 24-hour behavioural pattern. 

The sleep-wake cycle, at what time we get up, and by what time we fall asleep, all of this is under the influence of melatonin. The levels of melatonin vary with the time of the day and depend upon the stimulus of light. Higher levels of melatonin are present during the night time while lower levels are present as dawn sets in. So this association of melatonin with light helps us wake up just in time and tucks us off to bed as well. 

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Effects of Melatonin on Sleep

As described above, the pineal gland receives information about the time of the day from the signals from the retina. The gland then decides what time of the day it is and accordingly regulates the level of melatonin. However, melatonin is not a must for sleeping. People can fall asleep with low levels of melatonin as well. But people sleep better with the right concentrations of the hormone in their body. Hence melatonin is an important indicator of good and healthy sleeping patterns. 

How to measure it and what is the normal value? 

Melatonin levels can be estimated by samples taken from our body like blood, urine or a spit sample. All these can be used as samples by which the value of melatonin in our body can be measured. Its level varies with age and with the time of the day due to different rates of production. During the daytime, melatonin levels are usually around 0-20 pg/ml and are very high during the night, which is around 40-100 pg/ml.

Functions of Melatonin in our body

1. Promoting Sleep: Melatonin is often used as a supplement to aid in falling asleep faster and improving sleep quality. These supplements are used for those who suffer from sleep disorders. People who are prone to jet lag can also utilize them for sound sleep. 

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2. Antioxidant Properties: Melatonin acts as a potent antioxidant, helping to nullify the effect of the free radicals and protect cells from damage.

3. Immune System Support: Melatonin has been shown to have immunomodulatory effects, helping to regulate immune function and enhance the body's defence against infections and diseases.

4. Regulating Hormonal Balance: Melatonin interacts with various hormones in the body, including cortisol, insulin, and reproductive hormones, contributing to overall hormonal balance and regulation. It plays a very important role in menstrual cycle balance and a woman’s monthly flow. 

5. Neuroprotective Effects: Melatonin has been studied for its potential neuroprotective effects, with research suggesting it may help protect brain cells from damage and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinsons Disease.

6. Improving Mood and Mental Health: Some studies suggest that melatonin may have positive effects on mood and mental health, potentially helping to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.

Melatonin is indeed an important hormone whose effects are widespread and not limited to a single system. Sleep issues are a real problem in today's text-savvy world, a world that does not sleep. With these sleep disorders on the rise, we might have to face severe consequences that will manifest in all other systems as a result of sleep pattern imbalances. It's time we recognise the importance of a good night's sleep. Consume your melatonin tablets and supplements if needed to maintain a good melatonin level. Check out Gytree’s 6-week program “Sleep better, be better” to improve your sleep environment and your overall productivity.