Melatonin

Melatonin is a hormone released by the pineal gland in the brain at night and helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle. People use melatonin supplements to support falling asleep more easily and to adjust sleep schedules disrupted by jet lag, shift work, or travel.

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Melatonin

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Melatonin

What it is: Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that acts as a signal for the body’s sleep and wake cycles, produced by the pineal gland in response to darkness.
What it does: Melatonin helps regulate circadian rhythms by signaling to your body that it is time to wind down and prepare for sleep.
How it is used: Commonly taken to shorten the time needed to fall asleep, to help reset sleep patterns after travel across time zones, or to support sleep for shift workers.
Natural sources and supplement forms: Though the body makes melatonin, very small amounts can be found in foods like tart cherries and walnuts; supplements typically use a synthetic form and come as tablets, capsules, or gummies.
Why it appears in supplement formulas: Melatonin is included for its ability to help support a healthy sleep schedule and ease temporary disruptions in sleep timing.
What to know before use: Melatonin may cause drowsiness and can interact with certain medications; consult a healthcare provider before use if you take sedatives, are pregnant, or have a medical condition.

Interesting Fact

Melatonin Signals Your Internal Clock When It's Time to Wind Down

Melatonin is released by your brain in response to darkness and helps tell your body when it's time to get ready for sleep—not by sedating you, but by nudging your natural sleep-wake cycle. While your body makes it every night, small amounts are also found in foods like tart cherries and walnuts, although supplement amounts are typically higher.

FAQ

Common questions about Melatonin

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions About Melatonin

How does melatonin help regulate sleep patterns?

Melatonin signals to your body that it is night by increasing as darkness falls. This hormone supports the regulation of circadian rhythms, helping to synchronize your internal clock and promote natural sleep onset, especially when adjusting to jet lag or shift work.

What are common forms of melatonin supplements?

Melatonin is available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, gummies, and liquid drops. Most supplements feature a lab-synthesized version of melatonin, as natural dietary sources provide only small amounts.

Are there foods that naturally contain melatonin?

Yes, small amounts of melatonin occur naturally in foods like tart cherries, grapes, walnuts, and tomatoes. However, the levels found in these foods are much lower than in typical melatonin supplements.

Can melatonin interact with medications or other supplements?

Melatonin may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners, immune suppressants, diabetes medications, and sedatives. It can also cause drowsiness, so combining it with other supplements or medications that cause sedation should be done cautiously and under medical advice.