High Levels of Melatonin

High levels may bring about inhibition of ovulation, mood disorders, and/or a decreased body temperature.
Suspect:

1. An extended nocturnal dark phase, which may increase the duration of melatonin secretion.
2. Melatonin supplementation, or supplementation of its precursor, tryptophan
3. Other substances that may increase melatonin

   DRUGS which may stimulate melatonin production Desipramine Most MAO inhibitors HERBS which may raise melatonin levels Hypericum perforatum (an MAO inhibitor) Cannabis sativa (marijuana) FOODS high in melatonin: Oats, sweet corn, rice, Japanese radish, ginger, tomatoes, bananas, barley FOODS high in tryptophan (melatonin precursor): Spirulina seaweed, soy bean, cottage cheese, chicken liver, pumpkin seeds, turkey, chicken, watermelon seeds, almonds, peanuts, brewer’s yeast, malted milk, milk, ice cream, yogurt

4. Decreased metabolism of melatonin by the liver.
5. Increased risk associated with increases in mela-tonin secretion in humans, fluoxetine (commonly disorders, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Consider the Following Actions:

1. Increase morning exposure to bright light.
2. Avoid melatonin and/or tryptophan supplements
3. Re-evaluate use of medications, herbs and dietary intake of melatonin- enhancing foods
4. Modify exercise routine. (daytime exercise can increase melatonin
   levels)
5. Evaluate liver metabolism.

Low Levels of Melatonin

Low levels may contribute to insomnia, sleep/wake disorders, mood disorders, increased risk of cardiovascular disease, immune disorders, and cancer.

Suspect:

1. An extended light phase of the day which may decrease the duration of melatonin secretion.
2. Drugs and other substances that may decrease melatonin levels:
   

   NSAIDS, anti-anxiety drugs and antidepressants (SSRIs and benzodiazepines), antihypertensives (beta-blockers, adrenergics, and calcium channel blockers), and steroids. Caffeine, tobacco, alcohol High doses of vitamin B12 (3 mg a day)

3. Evening exercise, which can decrease melatonin levels up to three
   hours after the end of exercise
4. Increased risk for mood disorders, such as some forms of depression
5. Increased metabolism of melatonin by the liver
6. Decreased production of melatonin by the pineal gland