The Truth about Caffeine by Marina Kushner

Author:Marina Kushner
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2015-03-03T16:00:00+00:00

Caffeine and Melatonin

Melatonin is the primary hormone responsible for sleep. Its release is controlled by the neurotransmitter serotonin. Melatonin is essential for a good night’s sleep and the proper function of the immune system. Lack of sleep or disrupted sleep patterns suppress the immune system’s normal activity. The body becomes more susceptible to viruses, infections, and illnesses. The release of melatonin can be affected by methylxanthines: caffeine, theophylline, and theobromine.

A group of Israeli researchers from Tel-Aviv University, Meir Hospital, Sapir Medical Center, and the Sackler School of Medicine found that caffeine consumption decreases melatonin secretion and affects quality and quantity of sleep.53

In a double-blind study, six volunteers drank decaffeinated or regular coffee on one day and alternate beverages seven days later. Their sleep patterns were identified by actigraphy. Then, the participants drank decaffeinated or regular coffee again and their urine was collected every 3 hours for the determination of levels of 6-sulphoxymelatonin (6-SMT), which is the main metabolite of melatonin in urine.

The researchers found that drinking regular versus decaffeinated coffee caused a decrease in the 6-SMT excretion throughout the night. Caffeine affected the quality, quantity, and the length of time it took to fall asleep.

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