Why Melatonin Helps With More Than Just Better Sleep
Shutterstock By Paige McBride/April 13, 2021 1:25 pm EST
A relaxing aid for the restless, melatonin gets its reputation as the sleep hormone for good reason. The molecule that signals the body to wind down, melatonin is readily available in different foods and supplements. But, in addition to getting better sleep, this molecule is also vital to the health of our cells.
Mindbodygreen reports that mitochondria need melatonin to function properly and at their best. If you remember biology class from middle school, you’ll likely recall that this area of the cell generates its energy. As you age, your mitochondria get more and more depleted, the outlet notes, and it’s important to ensure that your body has enough energy to optimize. Essentially, this area of the cell generates the melatonin that your body needs to function properly. “Melatonin reduces mitochondrial fission and increases their fusion, thereby preserving their normal function,” Steven Gundry, MD, tells the outlet. Indeed, as your energy levels shift throughout the year, your melatonin intake could be responsible. Healthline explains that this molecule helps regulate circadian rhythms that impact your sleep-wake cycle. Those suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder may experience a relief in symptoms when they add this supplement to their wellness routine.
Why Melatonin Helps With More Than Just Better Sleep
Shutterstock
By Paige McBride/April 13, 2021 1:25 pm EST
A relaxing aid for the restless, melatonin gets its reputation as the sleep hormone for good reason. The molecule that signals the body to wind down, melatonin is readily available in different foods and supplements. But, in addition to getting better sleep, this molecule is also vital to the health of our cells.
Mindbodygreen reports that mitochondria need melatonin to function properly and at their best. If you remember biology class from middle school, you’ll likely recall that this area of the cell generates its energy. As you age, your mitochondria get more and more depleted, the outlet notes, and it’s important to ensure that your body has enough energy to optimize. Essentially, this area of the cell generates the melatonin that your body needs to function properly. “Melatonin reduces mitochondrial fission and increases their fusion, thereby preserving their normal function,” Steven Gundry, MD, tells the outlet. Indeed, as your energy levels shift throughout the year, your melatonin intake could be responsible. Healthline explains that this molecule helps regulate circadian rhythms that impact your sleep-wake cycle. Those suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder may experience a relief in symptoms when they add this supplement to their wellness routine.
Mindbodygreen reports that mitochondria need melatonin to function properly and at their best. If you remember biology class from middle school, you’ll likely recall that this area of the cell generates its energy. As you age, your mitochondria get more and more depleted, the outlet notes, and it’s important to ensure that your body has enough energy to optimize. Essentially, this area of the cell generates the melatonin that your body needs to function properly. “Melatonin reduces mitochondrial fission and increases their fusion, thereby preserving their normal function,” Steven Gundry, MD, tells the outlet.
Indeed, as your energy levels shift throughout the year, your melatonin intake could be responsible. Healthline explains that this molecule helps regulate circadian rhythms that impact your sleep-wake cycle. Those suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder may experience a relief in symptoms when they add this supplement to their wellness routine.
You can get melatonin from various food sources
Having enough melatonin also supports your eye health, Healthline explains. Helping prevent cell damage in this area, ensuring that your body has enough melatonin also protects against degeneration of your eyes. Additionally, it may reduce the presence of acid reflux or GERD as well.
To find the appropriate dose, if you’re using a supplement, start with a small amount such as .5 mg and slowly increase as needed, the outlet recommends.
