Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that promotes mental health
and positive energy. High serotonin levels can lower blood pressure, improve
sleep, and keep all of your body's functions running smoothly. Learn how to
increase serotonin in order to improve your overall health.
What Is Serotonin?
Serotonin is a naturally occurring neurotransmitter that
transports signals between nerve cells throughout the body. Serotonin, also
known as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is a neurotransmitter that plays an
important role in the central nervous system.
Serotonin levels regulate a variety of bodily functions,
including blood clotting, cognition, memory, and bone health. Serotonin
deficiency can lead to mood disorders and other health problems. There are
numerous natural ways to increase serotonin levels, including regular exercise,
light therapy, and proper diet.
Dopamine vs. Serotonin
Dopamine and serotonin are both neurotransmitters that occur
naturally. Dopamine and serotonin, in addition to endorphins, are naturally
occurring chemicals known as happiness hormones. Dopamine and serotonin release
can influence a person's mood and overall happiness.
Dopamine produces euphoria and pleasure by acting on the
reward centers of the brain. Dopamine is typically released after achieving a
goal, activating the brain's reward system and elevating your mood. Dopamine is
a neurotransmitter that promotes motivation and productivity. Sunlight and
aerobic exercise, on the other hand, produce serotonin, which increases
happiness and calmness.
What Does Serotonin Do?
Serotonin is required by the human body. Consider serotonin's
role in the following bodily functions:
1. Serotonin helps with digestion. The intestines produce
the majority of the body's serotonin, which is necessary for digestive activity
and health. Serotonin receptors cause nausea, aid in the regulation of
gastrointestinal activity, and aid in the treatment of irritable bowel
syndrome.
2. Serotonin improves mood. Having the right amount of
serotonin in your body can help reduce feelings of anxiety or depression and
keep you thinking positively even under stress.
3. Serotonin promotes sleep. Serotonin is converted by the
brain into melatonin, a chemical that helps you focus, relax, and sleep better.
Serotonin allows you to relax and sleep.
4. Serotonin promotes blood clotting. The majority of
serotonin in the body is stored in blood platelets. Platelets release serotonin
to assist your body in producing blood clots, allowing you to heal from a wound
or cut and fully recover from an injury.
5. Serotonin promotes bone health. Serotonin is produced by
the brain in its serotonergic system to improve bone density and overall
health.
How to Increase Serotonin Naturally
Consider the following natural ways to boost serotonin
levels and improve your overall well-being:
1. Maintain a healthy diet. Leafy greens, bananas, beans,
and fatty fish are some foods to include in a healthy, varied diet to boost
serotonin levels. For example, the amino acid tryptophan promotes serotonin
production and is found in chicken, eggs, cheese, and other foods.
2. Participate in physical activity. Aerobic exercise
promotes feelings of well-being. Because serotonin is responsible for this
positive surge, engaging in activities that make your body happy can also make
your mood happy.
3. Spend time outside in the sun. The sun stimulates
serotonin production. Spending time outside or using a light therapy box can
help increase serotonin levels and combat SAD.
4. Take nutritional supplements. Several common supplements,
such as St. John's wort and 5-HTP, can boost your body's serotonin levels.
Before taking supplements, always consult with your doctor.
5. Consult with a therapist. Stress and anxiety can reduce
serotonin production and cause bodily dysfunction. Therapists can assist you in
reducing your stress levels.
Serotonin Medication
If you believe you have a serotonin deficiency despite
trying natural remedies, see a doctor who can test your serotonin levels and
may prescribe dietary supplements or antidepressant medications. Because
depression and other mental health conditions can be symptoms of a chemical
imbalance in the brain, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are the
most commonly used antidepressants for improving a person's mood.
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), like
SSRIs, block serotonin reuptake while also influencing norepinephrine levels.
To combat chemical imbalances, doctors can also prescribe tricyclic
antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). It should be
noted that certain medications that increase serotonin levels can cause side
effects and serotonin syndrome.
What Is Serotonin Syndrome?
Serotonin syndrome can occur when you begin a new medication
that significantly increases serotonin levels. Seizures can occur when
serotonin levels are extremely high. Other symptoms of serotonin syndrome
include fluctuating blood pressure and increased nervousness or anxiety. In
rare cases, serotonin syndrome can be fatal.
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