Serotonin: what it is for and how to increase it naturally

Serotonin: what it is for and how to increase it naturally


The neurotransmitter is a real fuel for pleasure and a sense of well-being

You’ve probably heard that the serotonin It is one of the pleasure hormones. After all, it is a neurotransmitter responsible for a type of electrochemical “communication” between neurons. However, it became known as a substance that generates happiness, precisely because it positively influences sleep, mood and appetite. In other words, crucial factors for the well-being of any person.




Symptoms of low serotonin

Therefore, the lack of serotonin (or its low presence) in the body can compromise various brain functions. Causing physical and psychological symptoms responsible for serious illnesses, such as anxiety and depression. The main signs that your body has low neurotransmitter levels are:

  • Reduced self-esteem;
  • Uncontrolled eating;
  • Fatigue;
  • Decreased concentration power;
  • Irritability;
  • Bad mood;
  • Behavior change;
  • Memory oscillation;
  • Insomnia;
  • Decrease in sexual performance;
  • Anxiety;
  • Depression.

“Mood, good sleep, appetite, heart rate, body temperature, sensitivity and cognitive functions are regulated by serotonin,” explains psychologist Deise Cristina Gomes, specializing in ADHD, anxiety and depression.

How to increase neurotransmitter levels in the body

To prevent the appearance of these symptoms it is essential to have a healthy lifestyle. Moreover, the production of serotonin is directly linked to the regular practice of physical activities and the consumption of some specific foods.

“The sources of serotonin are generally food, since its production depends on the essential amino acid called tryptophan“, says Dr. Wanderley Cerqueira de Lima, neurosurgeon and neurologist at the Hospital Israelita Albert Einstein. Check out some foods rich in tryptophan:

  • Dark chocolate;
  • Egg;
  • Banana;
  • Pineapple;
  • Tomato;
  • Lean and lean meats;
  • Milk;
  • Whole grains;
  • Vegetables;
  • Spinach;
  • Asparagus.

In other words, exercise and a good diet can increase happiness. “So, don’t forget, the body does not produce this essential amino acid [triptofano] and its lack causes all the symptoms reported”, concludes Dr. Cerqueira.

Source: Health in the day.

Source: Terra

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