Melatonin: regulate your sleep

I wish sleep were as easy as closing your eyes and lying down in bed. For many people with disturbed sleep, understanding their sleep cycle and, more importantly, the role of melatonin is critical.

Melatonin is a hormone that regulates your sleep.

Often called the sleep hormone, it is secreted by the pineal gland, deep within your brain. Its production is closely tied to light.

When the sun sets, darkness triggers the release of melatonin, signaling to your body that it is time to rest.

In contrast, exposure to bright light, especially the blue light from screens, suppresses melatonin, keeping you alert.

But melatonin is more than just a sleep signal. It acts as a powerful antioxidant. As cells burn energy during the day, they produce free radicals.

Free radicals damage your DNA.

Melatonin neutralises these free radicals, protecting your brain and body from oxidative stress.

So if you are looking for the key to longevity and good health, look no further than melatonin.

So how can you optimize melatonin levels?

Start with light. Your body’s clock, or circadian rhythm, needs clear signals. Expose yourself to natural sunlight during the day.

Then, as evening approaches, dim the lights. Avoid screens before bed or use filters to reduce blue light. Darkness is the cue your pineal gland needs to produce melatonin.

Your diet can also help. Foods like cherries, walnuts, and tomatoes contain natural melatonin.

Magnesium and vitamin B6, found in nuts and seeds, help the body produce it. Even something as simple as keeping your room cool and dark can make a difference.

Finally, manage stress. High cortisol, the stress hormone, can disrupt melatonin production. A simple breathing practice or meditation before bed can restore balance.

The key is to slow your breath down.

Sleep is not a luxury. It is by far the best cure for good health and a long life.

Melatonin regulates your sleep like nothing else does.

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