This is your body's signal to know if you are lacking melatonin

A discreet but telling sign may be that your body isn't producing enough melatonin, the hormone essential for regulating sleep . If you've noticed that you're waking up too early , feeling tired and not having had enough rest, it could be a reflection of an imbalance in this key substance for well-being.

Melatonin is a hormone naturally secreted by the brain's pineal gland , especially at night. Its function is to synchronize the body's biological clock with the day-night cycle. As noted by the University of Navarra Clinic , in addition to its role in sleep, it has antioxidant and anxiolytic properties, so a deficiency can impact sleep quality , mood, and cognitive performance.

How to recognize melatonin deficiency

According to information compiled by Brain Effect , one of the most common signs, besides waking up early, is nighttime restlessness accompanied by morning fatigue . This can include difficulty falling asleep, waking up frequently during the night, or feeling mentally foggy upon waking. These symptoms, although common, can go unnoticed if not considered in the context of a possible hormonal imbalance .

The causes of this deficiency are diverse, but include factors such as exposure to blue light at night from cell phones, computers, and televisions, shift work , consuming caffeine or alcohol at inappropriate times, and the natural aging process. Starting at age 40, the body significantly reduces its ability to produce melatonin, which can exacerbate these symptoms if corrective measures are not taken.

Detecting a melatonin deficiency doesn't require invasive testing. Saliva tests are available that accurately measure melatonin levels without the need for a blood draw. However, if symptoms persist or affect daily functioning, it's advisable to consult a sleep physician , who can comprehensively assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include prescription melatonin supplements , dietary changes , and improved sleep hygiene habits.