You’ve heard of melatonin for sleep—but did you know your gut produces over 400 times more melatonin than your brain? And it’s not just a bedtime hormone. It’s one of the most overlooked keys to long-term vitality. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Deanna Minich—a leading researcher in melatonin science and functional nutrition—to explain how melatonin works on a cellular level—and why most people are using it all wrong. Here’s what we cover: -How melatonin protects your mitochondria, reduces inflammation, and supports brain detox -What makes melatonin the “next vitamin D,” and how to use it strategically for far more than just sleep -Why blue light at night crushes your natural melatonin—and what that means for your hormones, sleep, and aging -Why plant-based melatonin may be safer and more effective than synthetic versions -The difference between physiological (what your body naturally produces) vs. high-dose melatonin -The emerging role of melatonin in cancer therapy and its ability to support mitochondrial resilience If you’ve ever been unsure about melatonin—or just want to optimize your sleep, longevity, and resilience—this episode clears the confusion and gives you science-backed tools that work. Full show notes: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/melatoninmyths Additional Resources: Ben Greenfield Life Website: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/ Ben Greenfield Life Podcast: https://bengreenfieldlife.com/podcast/ Ben Greenfield Books: https://shopbengreenfieldlife.com/collections/books Instagram https://www.instagram.com/bengreenfieldfitness/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/BGFitness X https://twitter.com/bengreenfield TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@bengreenfield