As scientists delve deeper into the mechanisms of aging, a growing body of evidence suggests a pivotal role for melatonin - a hormone best known for its regulation of sleep-wake cycles. Melatonin's influence extends far beyond our ability to get a good night's sleep, as researchers now explore its intricate connections with the aging process. From cellular rejuvenation to immune enhancement, melatonin seems to hold promise for aging gracefully and maintaining optimal health.
The Basics: What is Melatonin?
Melatonin, primarily produced by the pineal gland, governs our circadian rhythm, helping to regulate our sleep patterns throughout the 24-hour day-night cycle. Its synthesis and secretion occur in response to darkness, rising to peak levels during the night and dropping during daylight hours, and when we are exposed to artificial light at night (ALAN). By binding to melatonin receptors in the brain, the hormone signals the body to sleep and synchronizes a range of vital physiological processes, such as cellular repair and recharging cellular mitochondria that produce energy in our bodies.
Melatonin's Role in Aging
1. Antioxidant and Cellular Protection
One of the key factors in aging is oxidative stress, which occurs when reactive oxygen species (ROS) overwhelm the body's antioxidant defenses. Melatonin, with its potent antioxidant properties, helps counteract this imbalance by gathering up free radicals and protecting cellular structures from oxidative damage. By reducing oxidative stress, melatonin may slow down the aging process and decrease the risk of age-related diseases, such as cancer and cardiovascular disease.
2. Improved Sleep Quality
As we age and become more susceptible to a range of health conditions due to cellular breakdown, sleep disturbances and insomnia become more common, negatively impacting our overall well-being. Melatonin supplementation has shown promise in improving sleep quality and duration, leading to better cognitive function, increased energy levels, and improved mental health. Adequate sleep is crucial for optimal functioning and can contribute to a healthier aging process.
Our Favorite Melatonin Recommendation
From Zorex International
Contains high potency 10mg melatonin in each capsule.
3. Enhanced Immune Function
Aging is often accompanied by a decline in immune function, making individuals more susceptible to infections and diseases. Research suggests that melatonin plays a crucial role in immune regulation, stimulating immune cell activity and bolstering the body's defense mechanisms. By enhancing immune function, melatonin supplementation may help combat age-related immune decline and promote overall wellness.
4. Mitochondrial Health and Energy Production
Mitochondria, known as the powerhouses of the cell, play a vital role in energy production and maintaining cellular functions. With age, mitochondrial dysfunction becomes more prevalent, leading to decreased energy levels and impaired cellular functions. In the presence of melatonin, however, mitochondria are signaled to expand their activity and numbers in our cells, leading to greater energy capacity and quality.
If you are feeling your body becoming more fatigued due to age or loss of sleep, adding melatonin may be a powerful way to help restore a broad range of functions to your system!
References:
Richardson RB, Mailloux RJ. Mitochondria Need Their Sleep: Redox, Bioenergetics, and Temperature Regulation of Circadian Rhythms and the Role of Cysteine-Mediated Redox Signaling, Uncoupling Proteins, and Substrate Cycles. Antioxidants (Basel). 2023 Mar 9;12(3):674. doi: 10.3390/antiox12030674. PMID: 36978924; PMCID: PMC10045244.
de Goede P, Wefers J, Brombacher EC, Schrauwen P, Kalsbeek A. Circadian rhythms in mitochondrial respiration. J Mol Endocrinol. 2018 Apr;60(3):R115-R130. doi: 10.1530/JME-17-0196. Epub 2018 Jan 29. PMID: 29378772; PMCID: PMC5854864.
Wirz-Justice A, Terman AM. CME: Light Therapy: Why, What, for Whom, How, and When (And a Postscript about Darkness). Praxis (Bern 1994). 2022 Feb;110(2):56-62. doi: 10.1024/1661-8157/a003821. PMID: 35105211.
Gottlieb JF , Benedetti F , Geoffroy PA , et al. The chronotherapeutic treatment of bipolar disorders: A systematic review and practice recommendations from the ISBD task force on chronotherapy and chronobiology. Bipolar Disord . 2019; 21 :741–773.
Shen S, Liao Q, Wong YK, Chen X, Yang C, Xu C, Sun J, Wang J. The role of melatonin in the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus and Alzheimer's disease. Int J Biol Sci. 2022 Jan 1;18(3):983-994. doi: 10.7150/ijbs.66871. PMID: 35173531; PMCID: PMC8771831.
Sandyk R, Anastasiadis PG, Anninos PA, Tsagas N. Is postmenopausal osteoporosis related to pineal gland functions? Int J Neurosci. 1992 Feb;62(3-4):215-25. doi: 10.3109/00207459108999773. PMID: 1305608.