Melatonin's effects on sleepiness?

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Melatonin is a hormone well known for its role in inducing sleepiness and making it easier to fall asleep. Naturally produced melatonin has a variety of effects beyond regulating sleep, such as influencing bone mass and the maturation of gonads during puberty. However, Andrew Huberman has expressed concerns about the use of melatonin supplements, particularly due to their often super-physiological levels which can have broader hormonal effects and do not precisely mimic the body’s natural melatonin production. He also notes that while melatonin helps initiating sleep, it does not aid in maintaining sleep throughout the night 1 2 3 4.

Melatonin's Effects

Andrew explains how melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, has regulatory effects on bone mass and gonad maturation, while also having protective effects on placental development. He also warns against the potential dangers of melatonin supplementation, especially for pregnant women.

Huberman Lab

Using Light (Sunlight, Blue Light & Red Light) to Optimize Health | Huberman Lab Podcast #68
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