Circadian rhythms are controlled by a
“clock” in the brain, located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus. It is
synchronised specially by the natural light we perceive. There are also other
“peripheral clocks” in the body: the liver, the bowel, the heart...
You feel great when this system works, but,
if the clock breaks down due to bad habits, you sure are gonna notice it.
Adapt your routine to your body’s time
The biological clock and hormones
When our biological clock works, hormones
are produced at the right time and quantity.
Cortisol, the stress hormone
It is key to start the day with energy. It
increases in the morning to activate metabolism and keep you under alert. If
the circadian rhythm is altered and you experience cortisol peaks at night, you
may suffer from insomnia and stress.
Serotonin, the wellness hormone
It is involved in mood, motivation and
appetite. It is produced during sunlight hours, when there is good exposure to
sunlight. That’s why when days are grey, we may feel a bit depressed.
Melatonin, the sleep hormone
It is released when night falls. When our
eyes stop seeing daylight, a nerve signal is sent to secrete melatonin. With
adequate levels, the body understands that it is bedtime.
Insulin, the hormone that regulates
glucose
It is essential for metabolism. Usually, it
is higher in the morning and goes down at night. Having lunch late or at
irregular times can alter metabolism and favour weight increasement.
Leptin, The hormone of satiation
It increases during the night to stop having an appetite and facilitate rest. If we sleep bad or little, leptin decreases and may lead to eat more and feeling hungrier the next day.
