La serotonin, also known as the feel-good hormone, is a molecule present in many tissues of the body; is involved in the rregulation of very important functions such as mood, sleep, appetite and emotions.
Let's find out together everything there is to know in today's article:
Index
What is Serotonin?
Serotonin is one chemical substance produced by nerve cells that sends signals between these cells; it is found in many parts of the body: in the digestive system, in blood platelets and throughout the central nervous system.
It is obtained from the essential amino acid tryptophan; this amino acid enters the body through the diet and is commonly found in foods such as cheese, meat, eggs and nuts.
What does it do?
It has a big impact on each individual, from emotions to motor skills. It helps sleep, digestion and is a natural mood stabilizer.
Serotonin helps the body to:
- Regulate anxiety
- Experience happiness
- Heal wounds.
Here's how it works in different parts of the body:
- Bowel movements: Helps control bowel movements and functions
- Mood: regulates feelings, such as happiness and anxiety; serotonin reuptake inhibitor drugs (SSRI) are able to relieve mood disorders by increasing the activity of serotonin in the brain
- Nausea: Serotonin in the stomach helps the body cause nausea and vomiting in response to illness and other conditions
- Sleep and wakefulness: the ability to stay awake is controlled by neurotransmitters, including serotonin
- Blood coagulation: When the body needs to repair damage, platelets release serotonin to aid in healing
- Sexual functions: is involved in the control of sexual functions
- Mental health: Many common mental health medications work by changing the way serotonin is used by the brain.
Is it possible to increase its levels?
It is possible to increase the levels through drugs and more natural supplements (always under medical supervision!):
- SSRI: SSRIs are the most commonly prescribed type of antidepressant medication; they increase serotonin levels in the brain by blocking the reabsorption of the chemical, so that more of it remains active
- Supplements: Supplements that can affect serotonin levels include:
- St. John's wort
- Themselves
- Tryptophan
Natural enhancers: The following strategies can help increase serotonin levels and improve mood:
- Exposure to sunlight: Bright light can improve mood
- Sport activity: Exercise has beneficial effects on mood and helps increase serotonin levels
- Healthy diet: following a balanced diet can promote the production of serotonin
- Meditation: Helps relieve stress and promotes a positive outlook on life.
Serotonin syndrome
Medications, supplements, and other substances can cause serotonin syndrome; it can occur when:
- Dosage of a drug already taken is increased
- You are using a new drug that affects serotonin levels.
Symptoms of the syndrome include:
- Tremors
- High sweating
- Nausea
- Threw up
- Restlessness
- Headache
- Red skin
- Temperature
- High pressure
- Muscle stiffness.
It is important to pay attention to these symptoms and always follow the instructions of your doctor.
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