So , what is Melatonin? It’s a hormone produced in the brain. The part of the brain that produces it is called the pineal gland.

Why is it important?

This hormone plays a key role in helping us fall asleep and get tired in readiness to fall asleep. So when your eyes start getting heavy , it’s because of melatonin . This means it plays a key role in our sleep-wake cycle . Melatonin levels reach peak level by midnight . Not sleeping enough can lead to Dementia and Alzheimer’s in later years .

The levels tend to reduce as we grow older , so sometimes older people may need to take it as a supplement

It’s one of the most powerful antioxidants when compared to Vitamins C , E and Beta-Carotene. This antioxidant activity and anti-inflammatory has health benefits that include :

• Reducing the risk of High blood pressure
• Reducing the risk of heart attacks
• Reducing the risk of some cancers
• Improving cholesterol levels

Other health benefits include :

• Stimulating the immune system
• Important in production of our reproductive hormones like estrogen and testosterone
• Important in regulating sleep
• Prevents memory loss and Alzheimer’s

The body produces it as darkness comes . Peak production is between 2am and 4am , so we need to be asleep during those times for peak production that will lead to enjoying the benefits on health . Also for maximum production we must sleep in a dark room . Sleeping with lights on , hinders its production .

How do we maintain levels naturally to get the benefits ?

• Eating regular meals as it’s production is maintained with regular routines
• Eat light meals at night because melatonin slows down digestion . This may lead to digestive problems .
• Avoid drinks that contain the stimulant – caffeine eg coffee , some soft drinks , coffee which interferes with its production.
• Avoid exercising at night . Such activity can delay its production
• Sleep with lights off
• Eat melatonin rich foods like goji berries , bananas, walnuts , almonds and tart cherries
• Take a hot bath at night

Melatonin supplements are also available . Ask your healthcare provider before buying .