M for Melatonin

Melatonin – Your pacemaker for sleep, cycle & balance

Melatonin is a hormone produced naturally in the body, primarily in the pineal gland in the brain – at night, in the dark . It is the most important messenger for our sleep-wake cycle (circadian rhythm) and acts as an internal clock for rest, regeneration, and hormonal balance. When it gets dark, melatonin levels rise, signaling to the body: time to wind down. In the morning, with the arrival of light, the level drops again.

For women, melatonin not only plays an important role in falling asleep and staying asleep – it also influences the menstrual cycle , fertility , and even symptoms during perimenopause . Chronic stress, blue light in the evening, shift work, or jet lag can disrupt melatonin production. The result: difficulty falling asleep, exhaustion, mood swings, or irregular cycles. Melatonin supplementation can help stabilize sleep patterns in the short term – but should be used consciously and not permanently. Natural aids such as darkness, evening routines, and sleep hygiene are also essential.

Sources:

• Hardeland R. (2012). Melatonin in aging and disease — multiple consequences of reduced secretion, options and limits of treatment. Aging and Disease, 3(2), 194–225.
• Cipolla-Neto J, Amaral FG. (2018). Melatonin as a hormone: new physiological and clinical insights. Endocrine Reviews, 39(6), 990-1028.
• Examine.com – Melatonin Summary