Hormone Health Hub: Expert Insights on Testing, Balance & Better Living — Sleep

  By Dr. Allison Smith, ZRT Laboratory I would like to thank everyone who joined in our webinar on the Role of Hormones in Sleep Disturbances!  There were a number of questions I wasn’t able to address due to time constraints but they were all excellent questions. I thought at least someone would be interested in a follow-up as I speak to the rest of the questions just as a little wrap-up. Q: Wouldn't it be nice to include Dried Urine Melatonin in your ZRT Comprehensive Profile, to be able to evaluate Morning Cortisol when low? Maybe it is low while...

Most people think of melatonin as a sleep supplement — but this remarkable hormone is produced throughout the body and plays a central role in immune defence, inflammation, pain management, gut health and even cancer protection. Dr. Allison Smith dives deep into the biochemistry of melatonin and explains why getting your levels right matters far beyond a good night’s sleep.

Did you know that low vitamin D could be disrupting your sleep? Research shows that vitamin D plays a key role in serotonin and melatonin production — the hormones that regulate your sleep-wake cycle. Dr. Kate Placzek explores the science behind the vitamin D–sleep connection, what else low vitamin D affects, and how to find out if deficiency is at the root of your sleep problems.

Insomnia affects roughly 50% of all adults — and while sleep hygiene is important, herbal nervines offer a powerful, evidence-backed complement to any sleep support plan. Dr. Sherry LaBeck of ZRT Laboratory reviews 9 key botanical remedies for sleep disturbances and nervous system support, from the classic sedative valerian to the gentle tonic oatstraw, explaining the mechanisms behind each herb and the research supporting their use.

Most people have never heard of glycine — yet this small amino acid plays a remarkable role in sleep quality. Unlike conventional sleep aids, glycine promotes natural sleep architecture, lowers core body temperature, and actually improves daytime alertness rather than causing grogginess. Dr. Kate Placzek of ZRT Laboratory explains the neuroscience behind glycine’s sleep-promoting effects and its connections to the body’s circadian hormone rhythms.