The Sleep Profile is a non-invasive saliva test that assesses two major causes for insomnia: imbalances in melatonin and cortisol. Melatonin is a peptide hormone produced by the pineal gland which helps to control normal sleep patterns. Deficiencies of this hormone can lead to insomnia. Imbalances in the diurnal pattern of the glucocorticoid hormone cortisol can also lead to sleep disturbances.Insomnia is defined as a repeated difficulty with sleep initiation, maintenance, duration and/or quality of sleep. This occurs despite adequate opportunity and time for sleep and results in daytime impairment. Mild (transient or short-term) insomnia is known to affect between 30-50% of the general population, whilst chronic insomnia has a prevalence of 9-15%. This disorder affects energy levels, memory, concentration and problem-solving skills. In addition, it has been linked to learning disabilities in children. Sleeplessness not only affects the individual but also produces social stress, lowered employee productivity and higher number of accidents. Therefore, it is vital that the cause and treatment of insomnia is adequately addressed.

The Sleep Profile Extensive provides the practitioner with extra readings for Melatonin and Cortisol, so the practitioner can track the activity of the hormones over a longer duration.

This is an ideal test to consider for a shift worker, who would be highly likely to experience imbalances in Cortisol and Melatonin.