Melatonin – Your Body’s Most Important Sleep Hormone

Melatonin is the key hormone involved with sleep and it follows a strict cycle throughout the day. Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland in the brain. This sleep-wake cycle is regulated by light exposure. During the day, the sun and light inhibits the pineal gland from making melatonin. When this light goes away (in the evening), melatonin production is stimulated and this causes us to feel sleepy. This natural rhythm is so important to ensure quality sleep and proper sleep patterns. Melatonin has been studied extensively for sleep disorders including insomnia, jet lag and even dysmenorrhea (painful periods).