This panel provides an assessment of melatonin and cortisol, two hormones which contribute to your body’s stress response and a good night’s sleep.

About the test

Your test will measure the levels of both melatonin and cortisol throughout your day; including morning, afternoon, evening, and night.

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the brain’s pineal gland and plays a significant role in your sleep cycle. Production levels of melatonin respond to light and are therefore increased by darkness and decreased by light exposure (computers, phones, etc). Along with light exposure, stress and smoking can also impact levels. Low levels of melatonin can result in insomnia, anxiety and mood disorders or weight gain. Several sleep disorders have been known to be associated with suppressed melatonin production.

Cortisol is a hormone produced by adrenal glands and most known as the body’s “stress Hormone.” Cortisol helps regulate your body’s stress response, blood pressure, blood sugar, and metabolism.

Melatonin plays a significant role in falling asleep and levels are typically the highest in the middle of the night. Cortisol controls your sleep-wake cycle and is typically the highest in the morning right before you wake.

Consumption of walnuts, almonds, cherries, bananas, oats and tomatoes are a few food items that have been shown to raise melatonin levels. Stress reducing activities such as medication and breathing exercises can relieve stress levels and lower levels of Cortisol. The test is designed to provide you with your levels of both hormones but should not be used to diagnose sleep disorders or other health conditions.