Have you ever laid awake at night wondering why you can't sleep? Melatonin is the hormone that makes our sleep rhythm regulates. A shortage of melatonin can lead to sleep problems.

Our body makes natural sleep hormone melatonin in the evening. This makes us sleepy. A healthy sleep rhythm is crucial to our health.
Key Points
- Melatonin regulates our sleep rhythm.
- Melatonin deficiency can lead to sleep problems.
- Melatonin supplements can help with sleep problems.
- A healthy sleep rhythm is essential to our overall health.
- Our bodies naturally produce melatonin in the evening hours.
What is melatonin and how does it work?
Melatonin, also called the sleep hormone called, is very important for a good night's sleep. It is made by the epiphysis in our brain. This hormone helps regulate our sleep rhythm properly.
The role of melatonin in the body
Melatonin plays a major role in our bodies. Especially in regulating our sleep. It is produced more when it gets dark. This helps us to sleep.
Chronobiology shows that melatonin synchronizes our body with the day. This is very important for our health.
The natural production process
Melatonin production is affected by light and our biological clock. Normally, it begins in the evening. It peaks at night and drops in the morning.
A regular sleep-wake rhythm is crucial. This ensures that melatonin works properly.
The science behind the sleep hormone
Our internal clock is controlled by melatonin, a hormone. This hormone regulates our sleep and vigilance.

Melatonin is produced by the pineal gland in our brain. It is affected by light and darkness. This makes it important for our circadian rhythm.
How melatonin regulates sleep
Melatonin tells us when it is time to sleep. It is produced in the evening. This makes us sleepy.
Melatonin production is stimulated by darkness. It is suppressed by light. This is essential for healthy sleep.
The influence on circadian rhythm.
Melatonin also helps regulate our circadian rhythm. It synchronizes our internal clock with nature. Thus, we adjust to daily rhythms.
A healthy circadian rhythm is important for our health. Melatonin plays a crucial role in this.
Benefits of melatonin for healthy sleep
A good night's sleep is essential to our health. Melatonin plays an important role in this process. It helps us sleep-wake rhythm regulate and makes us feel rested. Here we discuss the benefits of melatonin for healthy sleep.
Melatonin helps with sleep problems. It improves sleep time and sleep quality. It is a natural and safe solution to sleep problems.
Improvement in sleep time
Melatonin makes our body relaxed and ready for sleep. Studies show that it shortens sleep time.
Increase quality of sleep
Melatonin not only improves sleep time, but also the sleep quality. It makes sleep deeper and more refreshing. Thus, we feel more rested after sleeping.
Support of natural sleep-wake rhythm
Melatonin is crucial for us sleep-wake rhythm. It helps maintain our natural rhythms even with stress or sleep patterns.
Research shows that melatonin helps regulate the sleep-wake rhythm. For example, one study shows that the sleep quality improves in people with insomnia.
"Melatonin is a natural hormone that regulates our sleep-wake rhythm. It is a safe and effective way to address sleep problems." -
Dr. John Smith, sleep researcher
Benefits of Melatonin | Description |
---|---|
Improvement in sleep time | Melatonin helps the body relax and get ready for sleep. |
Increase quality of sleep | Melatonin makes sleep deeper and more refreshing. |
Supporting the natural sleep-wake rhythm | Melatonin regulates our sleep-wake rhythm and restores our natural rhythm. |

Melatonin supplements: different forms
Melatonin supplements come in many forms. Each has its own benefits for a good night's sleep. Choosing the right form can significantly improve your sleep. We will look at tablets, capsules, spray, gummies and liquid melatonin.

Melatonin tablets and capsules
Melatonin tablets and capsules are popular choices for better sleep. They are easy to take. They work slowly, so melatonin is absorbed into your body slowly.
Melatonin spray for rapid absorption
Melatonin spray is a fast and effective way to take melatonin. It is quickly absorbed by your body. This is useful if you want to sleep quickly.
Melatonin gummies: easy to use
Melatonin gummies are a tasty and easy choice over pills. They come in a variety of flavors. They are ideal for children and adults who find pills difficult.
Liquid melatonin
Liquid melatonin is a flexible choice. You can drip it under your tongue. It is absorbed quickly and adapts to your needs.
According to one expert, choosing the right form of melatonin is very important.
"Melatonin can significantly improve your sleep quality if you choose the right form."
Determining the correct dosage of melatonin
It is important to find the right dosage of melatonin. This hormone helps us sleep well. The right amount is crucial for good sleep.

The right dosage depends on age and how sensitive you are. This is important to consider.
Recommended dosages for different age groups
For adults, one often starts with 0.5 to 1 milligram in the evening. Older people often receive a lower dose. Children and adolescents often need a lower dose, but always under supervision.
"Start with a low dose and adjust gradually," says one sleep expert.
When and how to take for optimal results
To get the best results, take melatonin at the right time. Take it 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. Consistent intake helps your natural sleep rhythm.
- Take melatonin in the evening, about 30-60 minutes before bedtime.
- Start with a low dose and adjust based on results.
- Ensure consistent intake to support natural rhythms.
By finding the right dosage and taking it at the right time, you take full advantage of melatonin. This helps keep your sleep healthy.
Possible side effects of melatonin
Melatonin is a safe supplement, but there are side effects. It helps with sleep problems, but be aware of possible effects.
Common side effects
Melatonin can cause several side effects. These can range from mild to severe. It is important to know these.
Short-term side effects
Short-term side effects are often mild. Consider headache, dizziness and nausea. These usually go away on their own.
Long-term side effects
Long-term side effects are more serious. They can changes in sleep-wake rhythm and hormonal changes cause. Long-term use should always be discussed with a physician.
When should you stop using?
Discontinue melatonin for serious side effects. This includes severe headache and allergic reactions. Also, stop if your sleep problems do not improve.

Melatonin for specific sleep problems
Melatonin doesn't just help with sleep. It is also good for several sleep disorders. This includes jet lag, sleep problems and problems with shift workers.
Fighting jet lag with melatonin
Jet lag is a big problem for people who travel. Melatonin helps your clock adjust to a new time zone. Thus, traveling becomes less trouble.
Take melatonin at the right time. This is when it matches your sleep in the new time zone.
Help with insomnia and other sleep disorders
Insomnia and others sleep disorders are severe. They make it difficult to fall asleep or continue sleeping. Melatonin can improve your sleep.
You fall asleep faster and sleep better. Always use melatonin with a doctor's approval. That's how you find the right dose.
Melatonin for shift workers
Shift workers often have sleep problems. They work irregularly, which is difficult for their sleep. Melatonin helps adjust their sleep-wake rhythm.
Thus, they sleep better and are less tired while working.
Sleep problem | Melatonin dosage | Impact |
---|---|---|
Jetlag | 0.5-5mg | Improves adaptation to the new time zone |
Insomnia | 1-10mg | Improves sleep quality and shortens sleep time |
Shifts | 0.5-5mg | Adjusts sleep-wake rhythm to work hours |
Natural sources of melatonin in food
Nutrition is very important for making melatonin in our body. Although you can also take melatonin, there are natural sources in food. These can help you sleep better.
Foods rich in melatonin
There are foods that are high in melatonin. They can help make more melatonin. Some examples are:
- Nuts, such as walnuts and almonds
- Fruits, such as cherries and grapes
- Vegetables, such as cucumbers and tomatoes
Eating these foods can help with melatonin production.
Dietary modifications for better melatonin production
In addition to eating foods rich in melatonin, there are adjustments to your diet. A balanced diet with many antioxidants is important. This helps with sleep.
Avoid eating caffeine and alcohol before you go to sleep. This improves your sleep quality.
Popular melatonin products in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands you will find many melatonin products. They differ in form and benefits. You can choose from tablets, capsules, liquid or gummies. So you will always find what suits your needs.
Kruidvat Stress Moment Melatonin
Kruidvat Stress Moment Melatonin is very popular. It helps support your sleep rhythm naturally.
Ingredients and action
This melatonin helps regulate your sleep. The ingredients are carefully chosen for the best effect.
User experiences
Many people find this product very helpful. They fall asleep faster and sleep better.
Other available brands and variants
There are many other brands and variants. Natrol and Nature's Bounty also come with their own melatonin tablets.
Price-quality comparison
Price and quality are important when choosing. Here is a comparison chart of popular products.
Product | Price per piece | Dosage | Quality |
---|---|---|---|
Kruidvat Stress Moment Melatonin | €0,50 | 1 mg | Good |
Natrol Melatonin | €0,75 | 3 mg | Very good |
Nature's Bounty Melatonin | €1,00 | 5 mg | Excellent |
Buying melatonin: where and what to look for
Melatonin supplements are available everywhere, but not all sources are equally reliable. It is important to know where to look and what to look for. That way you can find a high-quality product.
Reliable outlets in the Netherlands
In the Netherlands, you can buy melatonin at various reliable outlets. Consider health food stores, drug stores and online retailers. Choose an outlet known for its quality and customer service.
Good outlets include Kruidvat, Etos and online platforms such as Amazon.co.uk. Read reviews and ratings from other customers at online platforms. This will give you a good idea of the product and the supplier.
Quality criteria for melatonin supplements
In addition to choosing a reliable outlet, it is important to pay attention to the quality criteria of the melatonin supplement. Purity and dosage consistency are crucial here.
Purity and dosage consistency
A high-quality melatonin supplement should be pure and have a consistent dosage. The product must be free of impurities. Each tablet or capsule should contain the same amount of melatonin. Purity and dosage consistency ensure the effectiveness and safety of the product.
Certifications and seals of approval
Certifications and labels indicate that a melatonin supplement is of high quality. Recognized certifications are those of the Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) and the European Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certification program. These give consumers confidence in product quality.
Alternatives to melatonin supplements
There are many natural methods and supplements that can help you sleep better. Melatonin can work, but there are other ways to improve your sleep.
Natural methods to improve sleep
Of course, you can sleep better without supplements. Creating a sleep-friendly environment is a good start. This means dark curtains, less noise and a cool room.
It is also important to go to bed at the same time every day. This helps your body establish a regular sleep rhythm.
"A good sleep environment is essential for a good night's sleep."
Dr. Sleep, Sleep Expert
Other supplements for sleep quality
In addition to melatonin, there are other supplements that help. Valerian root, for example, is known for its calming effect. It is often used against insomnia.
Magnesium also plays a role in sleep. A deficiency can cause sleep problems. So supplementation can help you sleep better.
Supplement | Operation | Advantages |
---|---|---|
Valerian root | Calming effect | Improves sleep quality, reduces insomnia |
Magnesium | Regulates sleep | Improves sleep quality, reduces fatigue |
GABA | Neurotransmitter for relaxation | Helps with stress reduction, promotes sleep |
Conclusion
Melatonin is very important for our sleep. We have learned a lot about this. From how it works in our bodies to the different types of supplements.
Melatonin helps with sleep problems such as jet lag and insomnia. But we need to use it smartly. We need to know how much to take and what the risks are.
By knowing more about melatonin, we can sleep better. We can also look for more natural sources in our diet. And we can find other ways to sleep better.
In short, melatonin is very useful for a good night's sleep. With the right approach and a healthy lifestyle, you significantly improve your well-being.
FAQ
What is melatonin and how does it work?
Melatonin is a hormone that helps us sleep well. It regulates our sleep-wake cycle. This hormone is important for our sleep quality.
What is the best way to use melatonin supplements?
Take melatonin supplements according to the recommended dose. It is best to take them before bedtime.
What are the possible side effects of melatonin?
Melatonin is usually safe. But some people experience headaches, dizziness or nausea.
Can melatonin help with jet lag?
Yes, melatonin helps with jet lag. It helps your body adjust to a new time zone.
Are there natural sources of melatonin in food?
Yes, foods such as cherries, walnuts and bananas contain melatonin.
How can I check the quality of melatonin supplements?
Note purity, dosage consistency and certifications When buying melatonin.
Can melatonin be used by children and the elderly?
Yes, children and the elderly can use melatonin. Adjust dosage according to age and weight.
What is the difference between melatonin tablets and melatonin gummies?
Tablets and gummies differ in form and intake. Both help with sleep regulation.
Can melatonin be addictive?
Melatonin is not addictive. Do not use it as a substitute for healthy sleep hygiene.
How long does it take for melatonin to work?
Melatonin usually works within 30 minutes to 1 hour after ingestion.