Melatonin
Melatonin
Melatonin is a sleep hormone released when it gets dark, signaling your body that it's time to rest.
Details
Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland that increases in response to darkness and is suppressed by light.
Rather than directly inducing sleep, it sends a signal to the body that 'it's time to sleep.' As we age, melatonin production decreases, which can lead to sleep difficulties.
Reducing bright light before bedtime — especially the blue light from electronic devices — helps melatonin release happen more smoothly.
Melatonin supplements can be helpful for jet lag or temporary sleep issues, but long-term use is something to discuss with a professional like Mindy.
💡 Real-Life Example
Feeling naturally drowsy as night falls is thanks to melatonin. The blue light from your smartphone can interfere with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep.
This content is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical diagnosis.