melatoninkurva
Melatoninkurva, often referred to as the melatonin curve, describes the typical daily pattern of melatonin secretion in humans. Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland, primarily involved in regulating the sleep-wake cycle. The curve illustrates how melatonin levels rise in the evening as darkness approaches, signaling the body that it's time to sleep. Levels typically peak in the middle of the night and then gradually decline towards morning, promoting wakefulness as daylight increases. This natural fluctuation is influenced by light exposure, with light suppressing melatonin production and darkness stimulating it. Disruptions to this curve, such as through excessive artificial light at night or irregular sleep schedules, can interfere with sleep quality and circadian rhythmicity. Understanding the melatoninkurva is important for comprehending the biological basis of sleep and for addressing sleep disorders. Factors like age also influence the melatonin curve, with production often decreasing in older individuals.