Neurodegeneration

Melatonin also plays a key role in neuroprotection, because disruptions of the day/night cycle often have consequences for mental health. This has been proven on multiple occasions by studies. What’s more, the severity and course of diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s can be improved by melatonin.

Depression

Studies have observed that persons suffering from depression exhibit changes in their melatonin secretion and thus also their sleep/wake cycle. How we sleep is therefore also considered to be an important biomarker in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of depression. By normalising these melatonin disorders, behaviour changes can be improved and depression mitigated.

Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease

Low melatonin values, which are exhibited through daytime tiredness and nocturnal activity, are demonstrable in many Alzheimer’s and also Parkinson’s patients. Studies have been able to demonstrate that melatonin supplements administered for both of these diseases resulted in a significant improvement in symptoms, especially in the early stages of the disease.

Melatonin has a preventative effect

Melatonin has also been used to reduce oxidative stress in the brain and to reduce – or sometimes even prevent – the loss of nerve cells and damage to the brain. Melatonin is therefore primarily a preventative measure against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. Studies are still under way to determine if it can be used in a curative capacity.