A small randomized trial in women with overweight or obesity found lower ghrelin after melatonin supplementation, but no significant group differences in appetite, energy intake or body weight. The peer-reviewed pilot followed participants for eight weeks. Its limited sample and analysis of those who completed the trial leave the behavioural importance of the hormonal finding unresolved.
Women receiving melatonin had lower ghrelin, a hunger-related hormone, at the end of a small placebo-controlled trial. Comparison with placebo found no significant difference in appetite scores, consumed energy or measured weight. The peer-reviewed pilot therefore found a biochemical difference without establishing an effect on eating behaviour or weight. It examined hedonic appetite: the desire to eat enjoyable food beyond physiological energy needs.[1]
The randomized, double-blind study took place in Iran among women selected for elevated hedonic appetite alongside overweight or obesity. Of the 41 completers, 21 received 5 mg of melatonin daily and 20 received placebo for eight weeks. Hormones and questionnaire-based appetite were assessed at the beginning and end. Dietary intake and body weight were also measured during the intervention, allowing these outcomes to be compared separately.[1]
The endocannabinoid 2-arachidonoylglycerol also showed no significant between-group difference. Analyses included only participants who completed the trial, and several outcomes were examined in a small sample. The hormone finding remains exploratory. The population and duration restrict conclusions about other groups, longer-term benefit and safety. The trial does not validate melatonin as a weight-management treatment or establish that the tested dose is suitable for everyone.[1]
