Sleeplessness today is not just a problem; it has become quite an epidemic among all. Whether a child or an adult, indulging in late-night screen time is shifting our sleep cycle far away. But surprisingly, our body has its own clock, and it ticks at the right time for the right work.
Its agents, like melatonin, tick in to suggest that now it’s time to sleep. You will have to be understanding of your body’s needs and get to rest at the right time. As experts are stressing the role of melatonin for sleep, take a look at how you can help this hormone work properly in your body.
What is the Role of Melatonin?
Our body releases the melatonin hormone as the sunlight gradually decreases and evening begins. The role of melatonin for sleep is crucial as it signals to your brain that it is time to rest. During the day, sunlight suppresses melatonin, and this helps you keep alert. This is the natural rhythm of your body, called the circadian cycle.
However, after this, get a good, healthy, and sound sleep. However, as the neurosurgeon Dr. Arun L Naik suggests, light exposure, even late at night, naturally hinders your melatonin production, leading you to struggle with sleep night after night.
How Light Exposure Impacts Melatonin Levels?
The exposure to high-power artificial light, and especially that blue light from your mobile, laptop, or TV screen, tricks your brain. It suggests to your brain that it is still daytime, and this results in a lack of melatonin secretion. Therefore, the MCh of Neurosurgery in AIIMS, New Delhi, Dr. Naik suggests you completely switch off your gadgets at least one hour before you aim to sleep at night.
Taking melatonin supplements can be helpful for patients suffering from persistent insomnia. Doctors may prescribe supplements of melatonin for sleep after examining your condition. However, overdoing the supplements can interfere with their natural production. Therefore, you will have to focus more on the natural boosting mechanisms of melatonin in your body.
Natural Ways to Boost Melatonin Production
To naturally boost the production of melatonin, you can try the following measures,
- Dim the lights as the night approaches.
- Avoid caffeine completely in the evening.
- Maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
- Eat melatonin-rich food like milk, walnuts, and cherries.
The role of melatonin revolves around ensuring that you get proper sleep and rest for the next energetic day. Therefore, it is your duty to let the hormone work in full rhythm with proper food and lifestyle modifications.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is not a substitute for a qualified medical opinion in any way. The methods and claims mentioned in this article should be considered as suggestions only; DNP India neither confirms nor denies them. Always consult a doctor before following any such suggestions/treatments/medications/diets.
