Melatonin: 4 Facts That Will Change Your Sleep Forever
Melatonin: 4 Facts That Will Change Your Sleep Forever If you’ve ever stared at the ceiling at 2 a.m. wondering why your body won’t shut down, you’ve probably heard of melatonin —often called the “sleep hormone.” But there’s a lot more to it than just grabbing a supplement off the shelf. Understanding how melatonin really works can reshape your nightly routine and help you drift into deeper, more restorative rest. 1. Melatonin Isn’t a Sleeping Pill—It’s a Timing Signal Many people think melatonin knocks you out. In reality, your body naturally releases melatonin in the evening as daylight fades, signaling that it’s time to wind down. It’s a circadian rhythm cue , not a sedative. Taking it too early or too late can actually confuse your body clock. Aligning melatonin intake with your natural bedtime (usually 30–60 minutes beforehand) helps reinforce the signal instead of overriding it. 2. Light Exposure Can Make or Break Its Effectiveness Bright light, especially blue light f...