The Light of Day

On November 1^st we change the clocks back to Daylight Standard Time.  It is an annual reminder of the natural process that results in less daylight in the coming few months.  We sometimes forget how much sunlight plays a part in our overall health.  Aside from the manufacturing of vitamin D, there are other aspects to the light spectrum that researchers are just beginning to understand and this mainly centers on melatonin production. 

What is Melatonin?

Melatonin is a hormone secreted by the pineal gland which is located at the base of the brain.  It is secreted during the night time hours and has a great impact on our ability to sleep.  Diminishing light that falls onto the eye’s retina then stimulates the pituitary to message the pineal to produce melatonin.  It also acts as an antioxidant and research is now showing that it may be instrumental in helping depression, and also reducing tumors. 

Daylight and Nightlight...