Part 3/6:
According to Dr. Crandall, melatonin — a hormone produced by a tiny gland in the brain about the size of a rice grain — plays a vital role in regulating sleep cycles. Historically, sleep disorders affected a small fraction of the population, but today, over 25% experience some form of sleep disturbance, partly due to modern lifestyle factors such as internet and screen overexposure.
He states, "Melatonin is effective for temporary use, but it should not be used long-term." The hormone’s prolonged supplementation might interfere with the brain's natural circadian rhythms. Melatonin supplements can create a feedback loop, suppressing the brain's own melatonin secretion and potentially disrupting sleep-wake cycles.