Melatonin is the hormone that tells our brains and bodies it’s time to sleep. But if you think melatonin supplements will significantly improve your ability to fall asleep and stay asleep, you may have been misled. Sleep scientist Matt Walker shares how this “hormone of darkness” really works.
Sleep — we spend one-third of our lives doing it, but what exactly do we get out of it? And how can we do it better? In this TED series, sleep scientist Matt Walker uncovers the facts and secrets behind our nightly slumber. Check out more episodes on TED.com:
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This guy talks crap. Sleep is subjective for everyone. You listen to this guy and his 8 hours minimum sleep and you will get anxiety. DONT LISTEN TO MATT WALKER.
I dont care about ur science , it works for me!
For me it works to sleep.
This is a fantastic, scientifically-grounded breakdown. Since melatonin is the hormone that communicates a precise ‘time-to-sleep’ signal, the question of absorption timing and consistency is crucial.
If we acknowledge that delivery is paramount, my question for the scientists and formulators here is: Is the inconsistent and delayed absorption rate of standard swallowed supplements (capsules, tablets) the main reason why many users report that melatonin ‘doesn’t work’ or causes a next-day ‘hangover’?
We are a small research group highly focused on bioavailability. Has anyone here explored solid, sublingual/buccal delivery systems like Oral Dissolving Films (ODF) that bypass the gastrointestinal tract?
From a technical standpoint, the challenge is immense: How do we ensure a stable, ultra-low dose (e.g., < 1mg) is uniformly coated onto a film in mass production to guarantee a predictable 15-minute onset time? Finding a partner with high-precision coating equipment is proving to be a major hurdle for us.
I love how melatonin gets me off to sleep but I still het vivid dreams & next day grogginess even at low doses. 0.3 mg and even less 🤷♂️