Melatonin: a DIY Sleep Solution

While a lot of people are supplementing with melatonin to help with sleep, not a lot of people know that you can make your own melatonin-in your brain!

In fact, everyone makes their own melatonin in the pineal gland deep in the brain, but some common patterns of modern life can inhibit this important nightly process. The eyes send messages to the pineal gland, and when the eyes register less light at night, the pineal gland gets the message that it’s time to start producing melatonin to help usher in sleep. With modern conveniences such as fluorescent bulbs and computer and TV screens, the eyes receive a lot of light at night and the pineal gland don’t get the message that it’s time to start producing melatonin. This is one of many potential causes of insomnia.

One solution is to avoid screens and the use of fluorescent light bulbs for at least 1 hour before bed, which can help get sleepy time messages to the brain, and increase homemade melatonin. If you struggle with sleep or have specific questions, schedule an appointment to learn more.