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Nocturnal Core Temperature Regulation

Meaning

Nocturnal Core Temperature Regulation refers to the precise physiological process by which the body actively lowers its core temperature during the evening and night, a crucial component of the circadian rhythm essential for initiating and maintaining restorative sleep. This regulated drop in core body temperature, typically reaching its nadir in the early morning hours, facilitates the transition into the deep sleep phases. Disruptions to this thermal regulation, often due to hormonal imbalances or environmental factors, are a common cause of sleep onset and maintenance insomnia. Effective regulation is a biomarker of a well-functioning circadian system.