Expert Juliana Walsh says melatonin is linked to the control of the circadian (sleep and wake) cycle and helps promote the onset of sleep.
The doctor Juliana Walsh (CRM-SC 22.106 and RQE 12.960) explains that melatonin, known as the sleep hormone, is produced by the pineal gland, located in the central region of the brain. This hormone can be synthesized or extracted from animals. In Brazil, it can be formulated in compounding pharmacies. According to the expert, melatonin is released at the beginning of the night, when natural light fades, and has a greater production peak a few hours after sunset.
Replacement
The digital influencer couple, Oh Philip AND Virginia Fonsecahas already publicly stated that she takes melatonin supplements. But when is it necessary to replace this hormone? According to the expert, the main indication is in cases of jet lag (sleep dysregulation that occurs after traveling across multiple time zones), but it can also be used in circadian cycle disorders and insomnia. “There are studies showing that melatonin can cause an increase in seizures in people with epilepsy. In addition, its use should be avoided in children, pregnant women and breastfeeding women (due to the lack of studies demonstrating its safety). Ideally, it should be used under medical advice, to avoid possible drug interactions and side effects,” he warns.
Functions of melatonin
Juliana comments that in addition to controlling the circadian cycle and inducing sleep, several studies show that melatonin helps strengthen the immune system, has an antioxidant and rejuvenating action, protects the nervous system from the degradation of neurons (preventing dementia), helps in the treatment of cancer and seasonal depression (which can occur in people who live in regions where winter lasts a long time).
Stimulation of hormone production in the body
The doctor reminds us that melatonin is produced naturally. However, he emphasizes that people should avoid interrupting its production. Juliana explains that melatonin is produced more at night, when the metabolism is lower and we have less natural light in the environment. “To ensure this adequate production, we must avoid the light of screens (cell phones and computers) at night, avoid doing activities that stimulate the brain and metabolism close to going to sleep. Avoid working at night, reduce the lights at home when it starts to get dark (prefer yellow light) and do physical activity regularly in the morning,” he emphasizes.
Melatonin does not treat insomnia
According to the specialist, melatonin helps in cases of primary insomnia, when the person has difficulty falling asleep. But it only has an inducing effect and does not maintain sleep. Juliana emphasizes that, if the individual suffers from secondary or tertiary insomnia, in which the difficulty is maintaining sleep or reaching deep sleep (respectively), melatonin does not help.
Source: Terra

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.