Health Benefits of Melatonin
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in your brain. In addition to its endogenous functions as a hormone and antioxidant, melatonin is also administered exogenously as a dietary supplement and medication. Its primary role is to regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, which helps manage your natural sleep cycle (hence it is often known as "sleep hormone"). Due to this function, melatonin is commonly used as a sleep aid to address issues like insomnia. Here are some key points about melatonin: Sleep Aid: Melatonin is often referred to as the “sleep hormone”. Numerous studies have shown that it can improve sleep quality, help people fall asleep faster, and increase total sleep time. For instance, one study involving 50 people with insomnia found that taking melatonin two hours before bedtime led to better sleep outcomes1. However, it’s essential to note that while melatonin has fewer side effects than other sleep medications, it may be less effective. Seasonal De...