Many aspects of your quality of life are a result of your hormones. This includes everything from your mood to your disposition and productivity. One of the main hormones for your well-being is serotonin, a natural neurotransmitter that is fundamental to several body functions.
Its presence in the body is correlated with various behaviors and bodily functions. For example, it can influence a sedentary lifestyle, study habits and daily professional performance. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to this aspect of your health.
Follow and better understand the role of serotonin in the body.
What is the function of serotonin? See the benefits
Serotonin, also called 5-HT , is a neurotransmitter, that is, it establishes communication between the brain and certain parts of the body. It is also known as the “happiness hormone” . Its presence in the body regulates a series of functions and, yes, brings several benefits.
See some of the main ones here.
Sleep and mood regulation
The quality of sleep and your mood also depends on the presence of serotonin. It helps to avoid anxiety attacks , which improves your emotional state and leads to more peaceful sleep .
Promotes better digestion
This hormone is also found in great concentrations in the gut and stomach. It regulates bowel movement, which has a direct impact on digestion.
Influences cardiovascular health
The presence of serotonin in the blood affects vascular tone . In other words, it influences the ability of blood vessels to dilate and contract when necessary. A very important function for regulating cardiovascular pressure.
The body also releases serotonin to promote blood clotting in a wound, speeding healing.
Affects bone health
There is also a relationship between bone strength and the presence of serotonin in the body. When this hormone is in low quantity, the bone structure tends to weaken over time. This increases the risk of fractures and accidents.
Relationship with sexual desire
Serotonin is also related to libido . In adequate quantities, it promotes sexual desire and satisfaction. Something that is also related to physical, mental and social health .
Effect on concentration
It is necessary to have a reasonable amount of serotonin in the body to facilitate concentration on a daily basis . Something essential to maintain well-being at work , for example.
How does serotonin synthesis occur?
The body produces serotonin from the amino acid tryptophan.It goes via two enzymes: tryptophan hydroxylase and L-aromatic amino acid decarboxylase.The end result of this metabolic pathway is serotonin.
Once created, it enters the circulation and interacts to particular receptors on target cells to control their actions.
How do you know if serotonin is low?
As we mentioned, the presence of this hormone in the body is essential for regulating certain functions. Therefore, when it is very low, it is possible to notice some symptoms.
However, some of them can also be confused with normal changes in mood and disposition. Therefore, it is important to pay attention.
What can a lack of serotonin cause?
Paying attention to your body’s signals is the best way to identify when your serotonin levels are too low. See below some of the main examples:
- Difficulty concentrating and learning;
- Lack of energy;
- Urge to eat on impulse;
- Greater irritability.
As you can see, these symptoms are similar to other psychological conditions . For example, burnout syndrome . And yes, there is a correlation between a lack of serotonin and many psychological illnesses, such as anxiety and depression.
How to stimulate the production of serotonin?
The positive effects of serotonin on the body are quite remarkable. Therefore, it is important to stimulate its production. This promotes well-being and improves mood, something that also impacts professional productivity .
As it is a natural substance, it is possible to increase the amount with some changes in habits.
The first is exposure to sunlight, which accelerates the metabolization of this and other hormones. Another recommendation is to exercise . It’s difficult to start if your serotonin is low, as it makes you feel unwell. However, over time, it creates a vicious cycle to avoid a sedentary lifestyle .
What foods increase serotonin?
Much of the production of serotonin also depends on a healthy diet . After all, your body needs the right substances to synthesize this and other hormones.
In this case, you should look for foods rich in tryptophan , its raw material. You find this substance in greater quantities in whole grains, bananas, fish, peanuts, asparagus and milk.
If changes in habits and diet do not have the expected effect, then your serotonin deficiency may have other causes. In these cases, the ideal is to see a doctor.
What is serotonin syndrome?
Serotonin syndrome occurs when there is an excess of serotonergic activity.In other words, the hormone’s typical actions become extremely potent.The most prevalent reason is unanticipated adverse effects from medicines.
Happiness hormones: serotonin, dopamine and endorphins
In addition to serotonin, there are two other neurotransmitters that are known as “happiness hormones”: dopamine and endorphins . Discover the main differences in their functions.
Dopamine
Dopamine has a greater role in motor control, cognition, and regulation of other endocrine functions than serotonin. When it is released, you get the general feeling of pleasure. This is part of the body’s natural reward system and is involved with motivation.
Endorphin
Endorphins, in turn, are a natural painkiller . It acts to relieve pain, stress and the feeling of euphoria, being released after pleasurable activities. It is also activated when there is an injury to the body, to control the response to pain.