Sleep patterns, as well as nutrition, are among the factors that directly affect the recovery process after bariatric surgery. Obesity surgeries such as gastric sleeve surgery not only cause physical changes but can also affect hormonal balance, mood, and sleep quality. During this process, some individuals may experience problems such as insomnia and may seek melatonin support as a solution. So, is melatonin supplementation really necessary after bariatric surgery?
Changes Observed in Sleep Quality
Sleep after bariatric surgery can change in both positive and negative ways. While conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea may improve with weight loss, some individuals may experience new sleep disorders after surgery. These include:
- Frequent waking during the night
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Waking up early in the morning
- Feeling tired during the day
These changes may be related to both psychological and hormonal transitions.
The Role of Melatonin Hormone
Melatonin is a hormone produced by the pineal gland in the brain that regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Its secretion increases at night and sends a signal to the body that it is time to sleep.
Changes in the hormonal system after surgery can indirectly affect melatonin production. For example:
- The balance of appetite-regulating hormones such as leptin and ghrelin may be disrupted.
- Stress and anxiety levels may increase, which can suppress the melatonin cycle.
- Low protein and micronutrient intake can also affect hormone production.
The Effects of Bariatric Surgery on Sleep
Following bariatric surgeries such as gastric sleeve or gastric bypass, two-way changes in sleep quality may be observed:
Positive Effects:
- Respiratory disorders such as sleep apnea are reduced.
- With weight loss, the feeling of suffocation during sleep and snoring are reduced.
- Breathing more comfortably at night can increase sleep depth.
Negative Effects:
- The emotional transition process can cause anxiety disorders.
- Reactive hypoglycemia attacks can cause nighttime awakenings.
- Inadequate nutrition or deficiencies in iron, B12, and magnesium can reduce sleep quality.
Symptoms of Sleep Disorders
Sleep disorders should be evaluated in individuals experiencing the following symptoms during the postoperative period:
- Inability to fall asleep or waking up 3 or more nights a week
- Fatigue, weakness, difficulty concentrating during the day
- Feeling unrested after waking up
- Mood swings, symptoms of depression
If these symptoms do not go away within a few weeks, there may be an underlying hormonal, psychological, or neurological cause.
Melatonin Supplementation: Scientific Evidence
Melatonin supplementation is often recommended as a way to alleviate sleep disturbances after bariatric surgery. But is this supplementation really effective?
- In a study published in the journal Obesity Surgery in 2016, individuals taking melatonin supplements were found to have a reduction in sleep onset latency and an increase in total sleep time.
- Another study reported that individuals taking melatonin supplements had lower depression scores.
However, it may not be effective for everyone. Also, since melatonin is a hormone supplement, not a medication, it should not be used without a doctor’s recommendation.
Things to consider before using melatonin:
- Dosage: Generally recommended between 1-3 mg.
- Duration of use: Suitable for short-term use (2-3 weeks).
- Side effects: Side effects such as morning dizziness, nausea, and vertigo may occur.
Improving Sleep Quality with Natural Methods
For individuals who do not want to use melatonin or are looking for alternative methods, there are also natural methods available:
1. Sleep Hygiene Rules
- Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day
- Stop using screens one hour before bedtime
- Sleep in a dark, cool, and quiet environment
2. Eating Habits
- Do not eat 2 hours before going to bed
- Avoid sugary and caffeinated drinks
- Choose foods containing tryptophan (yogurt, milk, oats)
3. Daily Exercise
- Regular physical activity during the day can increase melatonin release. However, exercising late at night is not recommended.
The Relationship Between Sleep and Weight Control
Insufficient sleep can trigger hormones that cause weight gain (increased ghrelin, decreased leptin). This paves the way for unwanted weight gain after bariatric surgery. In addition, insomnia can trigger emotional eating behaviors, making both physical and psychological recovery more difficult.
Conclusion: Is Melatonin Supplementation Necessary?
There is no standard answer for every individual. Individuals experiencing sleep problems after bariatric surgery should first identify the underlying causes and consult a sleep specialist or endocrinologist if necessary. Melatonin supplementation may be beneficial when used at the appropriate dose and for a short period of time; however, it must be taken under a doctor’s supervision. At the same time, improving sleep quality through natural methods is just as effective as supplementation.
