Sleep disorders, what if it all started in the microbiota?

Sleep is a complex process that involves several regulatory systems in the body. The microbiota, the manufacture of serotonin and melatonin are all linked to the regulation of sleep.

The microbiota is the community of microorganisms that inhabit our digestive system. Gut bacteria are involved in the production of neurotransmitters, including serotonin, which is a precursor to melatonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, anxiety and sleep.

The manufacture of serotonin occurs primarily in the enteric nervous system (ENS), which is often referred to as the "second brain". The ENS is connected to the brain by the vagus nerve and it contains millions of neurons that regulate digestion, the immune system and sleep. Serotonin is produced in the enterochromaffin cells of the ENS from the amino acid tryptophan, which is a component of dietary protein.

Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain. Melatonin regulates the circadian rhythm, which is the cycle of wakefulness and sleep that is approximately 24 hours. Melatonin production is regulated by light and dark. Melatonin is produced mainly at night and it helps induce sleep.

In summary, the microbiota plays a role in the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which are important for the regulation of mood, anxiety and sleep. Serotonin is produced in the enteric nervous system from the amino acid tryptophan. Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain, which regulates circadian rhythm and helps induce sleep.