Doctor's Assessment Included
Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
Melatonin
Melatonin governs your sleep-wake cycle, and sleep is one of the most critical factors in athletic recovery and performance. Monitoring melatonin can help identify whether your circadian rhythm supports optimal training adaptation.
What It Measures
This test measures the concentration of melatonin in your blood. Melatonin is the primary hormone involved in regulating circadian rhythms, with production increasing in darkness and decreasing with light exposure.
Why It Matters
For athletes, sleep quality directly impacts recovery, reaction time, and performance capacity. Melatonin levels may indicate whether your sleep environment and habits are supporting your training goals.
When to Test
Testing may be recommended if you experience persistent sleep difficulties, jet lag recovery issues, shift work sleep disorder, or if your healthcare provider suspects a circadian rhythm disorder. Timing of the test is important for accurate results.
Symptoms
Low Levels
Some people with low melatonin may experience difficulty falling asleep, poor sleep quality, daytime fatigue, or mood changes. Low levels are sometimes associated with ageing, excessive light exposure at night, or certain medications.
High Levels
Elevated melatonin levels are uncommon but may be associated with excessive daytime drowsiness, seasonal affective symptoms, or certain rare conditions. Consult your healthcare provider for evaluation of high results.
Lifestyle Tips
Reducing screen time before bed, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, and ensuring your bedroom is dark may support natural melatonin production. Morning light exposure can help regulate your circadian rhythm. Discuss any supplements with your healthcare provider.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time of day should melatonin be tested?
Melatonin levels vary throughout the day. Testing is typically done at specific times as directed by your healthcare provider, often in the evening or early morning to capture peak production.
Does blue light really affect melatonin production?
Yes, blue light from screens and artificial lighting can suppress melatonin production. Reducing light exposure in the evening may help support your natural sleep-wake cycle.
Can melatonin levels decline with age?
Melatonin production often decreases with age, which may contribute to changes in sleep patterns commonly experienced by older adults. Consult your healthcare provider for guidance.