Circadian Phase Adjustment and Metabolic Control in Night‑Shift Workers
Summary
This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial tested whether taking 2 mg melatonin for 12 weeks could help night-shift workers adjust their circadian phase and improve markers of metabolic and cardiovascular health. Participants were randomly assigned to melatonin or placebo, and researchers tracked outcomes such as circadian timing, glucose regulation, and other metabolic parameters. The study has been completed, but no results have been published yet.
Why It Matters For Night Shift Workers and Night Owls
Night-shift work disrupts circadian rhythms, which may increase risk for diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. This study tested whether a simple, low-dose melatonin supplement could realign internal clocks and improve metabolic health. If shown effective, melatonin could provide night workers with an accessible, low-risk strategy to reduce the long-term health impacts of circadian misalignment.
Notes
Early protocol; shows the arc of circadian trials in shift work.