Melatonin And Sunlight
Find Out About The Secrets Of Melatonin
And Sunlight
What is the cause of us sleeping? If you asked 20 individuals
this question, it is most likely that you get all types of
answers. Some might suggest that a comfortable bed and quiet
surroundings are what makes us sleep. Others might say that
a nightcap is needed. Sheer exhaustion, a full stomach and
someone to cuddle with are some of the other opinions people
have about what makes us sleep. Interestingly, not many people
would give the correct answer to the question, which is the
facr of the release of the hormone melatonin.
Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland located
at the base of the brain. The hormone is secreted at several
different levels throughout the day and its release makes
the body's sleep-wake cycle become regular. The pineal gland
not only helps to regulate the body's internal clocks, it
also helps keep the body in balance by regulating the release
of different hormones, neurotransmitters and chemicals that
impact the body in many ways.
In fact, there is a high association between the release
of melatonin and the body's temperature, both of which are
controlled by the body's circadian rhythm. Melatonin levels
and body temperature are usually both low during the day and
slowly increase as evening arrives. Both reach their highest
levels during nighttime sleep.
The beginning of darkness stimulates the pineal gland into
action which is why melatonin levels remain low during daylight
hours. During the day, the melatonin levels are barely noticeable.
As the night arrives, the pineal gland starts releasing more
melatonin into the bloodstream. When more melatonin travels
throughout the blood, our body will start to get more and
more tired. When the blood pressure is slowing down, our body
will start preparing to fall asleep. Melatonin levels will
keep increasing until they peak which usually happens around
3 or 4 a.m. After that, as melatonin levels slowly begin to
subside, the body prepares to be awakened.
Anything that interferes the normal release of melatonin
can also potentally disturbs sleep patterns. Our body will
know that the presence of less melatonin means that it should
be alert and awake and ready for the day. So, the logic here
is pretty simple. When you have increased melatonin production,
it is a signal that tells you to go to sleep. Therefore, darkness
any time of day can trigger the release of melatonin and the
changes that naturally take place with its release.
Understanding all the factors of sleep and interferences,
we can achieve better quality
of sleep.
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