Can Melatonin Protect Against Alzheimer’s Disease?

It seems like every year, the mainstream puts out another useless – and even dangerous – Alzheimer’s drug. And every year, the 50 million plus people suffering from this life-changing disease are left disappointed. Because these drugs rarely work.

You see, Alzheimer’s is a complicated disease with more than one root cause. So, when the mainstream designs drugs that focus on just one of the drivers of this condition, they automatically fail.

Luckily, you don’t have to rely on conventional medicine – and its short-sighted drugs – to help END Alzheimer’s before it starts any longer. Research shows that a certain powerful supplement often used to promote better sleep can beat back the disease in four different ways.

Key Takeaways

• The sleep hormone, melatonin, may prevent the buildup of beta-amyloid and tau proteins, which are major contributors to Alzheimer's disease.
• Known as "type 3 diabetes," Alzheimer’s is linked to insulin resistance. Melatonin supports insulin signaling in the brain, potentially slowing disease progression.
• Melatonin crosses the blood-brain barrier to shield brain cells from oxidative damage and inflammation, both key drivers of Alzheimer's.

Melatonin to The Rescue

Melatonin is a naturally occurring hormone that regulates your sleep-wake cycle. It’s produced in the pineal gland – a small organ in your brain – and released into your bloodstream at night to induce sleep.

But there’s more to the story…

Research shows that melatonin also helps protect your brain from the ravages of Alzheimer’s in four different ways.

Blocks Beta-Amyloid and Tau Proteins

Beta-amyloid and tau proteins are two of the root causes of Alzheimer’s. These proteins clump together and cause damage to brain cells, resulting in memory loss, behavior changes, and other Alzheimer’s symptoms.

Melatonin helps stop the development of these proteins and clear existing ones from your brain.

One study of patients genetically inclined to develop Alzheimer's or were already suffering from the disease showed that this population has 50 percent less melatonin in their spinal fluid, showing a possible link between Alzheimer’s pathology and low melatonin levels.1

A review of nine animal studies showed that melatonin significantly corrected memory issues in mice with Alzheimer’s by reducing the deposits of beta-amyloid and tau.2

Signals Insulin

Some researchers call Alzheimer’s “type 3 diabetes” because insulin regulation is so vital for brain health.

Luckily, melatonin can help signal insulin, too.

Animal studies show that melatonin can improve the function and longevity of beta-cells, which produce insulin. By regulating insulin signals in the brain, this hormone helps promote healthy brain functions and stave off the impacts of aging, improving blood sugar levels.3

A paper, published in the journal Molecular Brain, found that melatonin helps insulin-related Alzheimer’s by controlling insulin resistance and lowering blood sugar levels in the brain. And by preventing damage caused by high blood sugar levels to blood-brain barrier.

Neutralizes Oxidative Stress and Inflammation

Oxidative stress and inflammation are two of the key drivers behind all diseases, including Alzheimer’s. These two processes can lead to brain cell damage and death, triggering tau and beta-amyloid buildup.

Research shows that melatonin can cross the blood-brain barrier to reach brain cells and organelles – including mitochondria – and shield them from the damage caused by oxidative stress.4

Boosts Your Body Clock

Alzheimer’s patients often struggle with sleep issues. One reason for this is the natural reduction in melatonin caused by aging.

Your body’s natural body clock – called the suprachiasmatic nucleus – helps regulate sleep and wakefulness cycles. When it becomes damaged by Alzheimer’s progression, it can lead to sleep disturbances, confusion, and nighttime agitation.

However, having a healthy level of melatonin can help reset this clock and stop the processes linked to Alzheimer’s behaviors.

A meta-analysis of 22 trials shows that Alzheimer’s patients taking melatonin supplements nightly for 12 weeks improved their memory and cognitive function.5

Another study of 52 healthy seniors with higher melatonin levels six hours before bedtime had greater hippocampal volume. This is an important finding because the hippocampus is the “memory center” of your brain.6

Finally, a meta-analysis of 50 trials showed that taking at least 3mg of melatonin nightly for six to 12 months improves cognitive function.7

Next Steps for a Better Brain

This body of research shows that melatonin is critical for healthy brain aging and reversing the damage caused by Alzheimer’s.

Even better, it’s natural and available at your local drugstore! Melatonin supplements come in many forms, including gummies, pills, and liquids.

So, if you’re doing everything you can to keep a sharp, healthy brain as you age, NOW is the time to talk to your doctor to see if a melatonin supplement is right for you.

They can also help you find the proper dosage to give you the most brain benefits!

Summary

Melatonin, commonly known as a sleep aid, also provides significant protection against Alzheimer's disease. This hormone combats Alzheimer's through multiple mechanisms: it helps prevent the formation of beta-amyloid and tau proteins, enhances insulin regulation, reduces oxidative stress and inflammation, and supports a healthy circadian rhythm. Research highlights melatonin’s potential to protect brain cells, improve cognitive function, and mitigate symptoms associated with Alzheimer's, making it a promising natural intervention for brain health.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does melatonin help prevent Alzheimer’s disease?

Studies show melatonin may help prevent Alzheimer's by blocking the buildup of beta-amyloid and tau proteins, regulating insulin, reducing inflammation, and supporting brain function through antioxidant effects.

Is melatonin safe for long-term use to support brain health?

While melatonin is generally safe, long-term use should be discussed with a healthcare provider to ensure it’s appropriate for your specific health needs and conditions.

How much melatonin is recommended for cognitive benefits?

Research suggests that taking at least 3 mg of melatonin nightly for six to 12 months can improve cognitive function. However, it's best to consult with a doctor to find the right dosage for you.

Can melatonin help improve sleep issues in Alzheimer's patients?

Yes, melatonin can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle, which is often disrupted in Alzheimer’s patients. It may reduce nighttime agitation and improve overall sleep quality.

Where can I buy melatonin, and are there different forms available?

Melatonin is widely available in drugstores and online in various forms, including gummies, pills, and liquids, making it easy to choose a form that suits your preferences.