Almost all hormones in the body follow a daily rhythmic cycle. There is a specific part of the brain that is responsible for the proper coordination of several rhythms. This area of the brain is called the suprachiasmatic nucleus. This is a bundle of nerve cells at the lower region of the brain known as the hypothalamus. The suprachiasmatic nucleus is often referred to as the “master clock” since it also regulates other biological processes of the body and maintains the circadian rhythm. Circadian rhythm is the internal body clock that is responsible of when we feel sleepy and when we become awake and alert. Furthermore, the suprachiasmatic nucleus is said to be controlled by a hormone which is naturally produced by a part of the brain known as the pineal gland. This hormone is called melatonin.

Melatonin is a hormone that is responsible for the regulation of sleep – wake cycles. The production and amount of melatonin in the body are directly related with the degree of darkness of the environment. This is one of the reasons why it is difficult for most people to achieve sleep onset if the surroundings is bright. Light can markedly affect the amount of melatonin produced by the body. According to studies, the concentration of melatonin in the circulation is at peak at night specifically before or during bedtime. This level remains high all throughout the night and then declines in late dawn or early morning. Exposure to very bright lights at night or dim light during daytime may disrupt the normal levels of melatonin expected for the certain time of the day. Generally, melatonin production gradually reduces with age. Some elderly people make only a little of it or none at all.

Though melatonin is naturally produced by the pineal gland, trace amounts of this hormone can also be found in foods including meat, grains, fruits and vegetables. And, with the latest innovation of technology in the medical community, melatonin is also formulated in the form of supplements. These supplements are very beneficial to individuals who are suffering from sleep problems such as insomnia. Many people also use melatonin supplements to reduce jet lag, aid in modifying the sleep – wake cycle for individuals with night shifts and improve the day and night recognition of blind people.

Aside from its primary role in regulating the sleep – wake cycles of the body, melatonin also has an antioxidant effect on its users. It is also involved in the release of female reproductive hormones thus playing a key role on when a female starts its menstruation, the timing and length of menstrual cycle and when a female achieves menopause or the period when menstruation stops.

Supplements of melatonin commonly come in the form of pill. Some pills are intended to be swallowed while others are formulated as sublingual or subbuccal pill. Subbuccal pill is put at the side of the inner cheek while the sublingual one is under the tongue. This is absorbed faster into the bloodstream. Though melatonin supplementation is highly safe, it is always best to consider talking to your physician first before you start supplementing.

You can find this hormone over the counter at your local or internet vitamin store. Always choose name brands to ensure quality of what you buy for better health.

Author Bio: If you suffer from sleepless nights, give Melatonin a try risk free at VitaNet ®, LLC Vitamin Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Melatonin, Sleep Aid, Sleep Remedy