Increase Serotonin Naturally

Serotonin is found in the gastrointestinal tract of humans and animals. Most of the serotonin present in the human body is located in the cells of the gut. Serotonin is used to regulate intestinal movement. Its function is regulation of mood, appetite, sleep and cognitive functions, like, memory and learning. Studies have shown that serotonin is found not only in humans and animals, but also in plants and fungi. In case of depletion of serotonin in the body, a low-food signal is sent by the body to the brain. It has also been seen that serotonin affects metabolism at large. Serotonin levels in the body play a large role in aggression, depression, and general mental health. It has been observed that the level of serotonin is on the lower side in women than in men, as women make less serotonin than men. That is also the reason women get depressed faster than men do. Therefore, it is important that we keep up the levels of serotonin at the optimum level in the body. There are ways to increase serotonin naturally, the biggest benefit of which is that the levels stay higher for a longer period.

How to Increase Serotonin Naturally

With approximately 18.8 million Americans suffering from depression and getting addicted to all kinds of depression medication, it is important to note the ways to increase serotonin levels naturally. Even if it is mild depression, it should not be overlooked, and measures should be taken at the earliest.

Amino Acids
Trytophan is an amino acid which is present in protein rich foods like turkey. When it is consumed, it converts to 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5HTP) and later into serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which is responsible for giving a feeling of joy and happiness. When the levels of serotonin are high, an individual feels optimistic and his confidence levels are also on the higher side. The reverse is the case when levels have dropped and the person craves for sugar. Foods rich in protein will help you in maintaining the optimal levels of serotonin in the body. Dairy products, meat, nuts, etc. are high on protein. The other advantage of increased 5HTP in the body is that the quality of sleep increases.

Stay Clear of Fad Diets
Fad diets like 'low protein', 'low-calorie', etc., are high on sugar and low on protein. This leads to serotonin depletion in the body and increase in sugar cravings. However, after consumption of sugar, the serotonin levels increase, albeit only for a very short period and the body again goes into the sugar craving mode. This becomes a vicious cycle. It is important that you follow a diet rich in vitamins, minerals and proteins. Studies have shown that vitamins and minerals also have a direct effect on the levels of serotonin. Therefore, it is important that well-balanced nutritious food is consumed.

Exercise
The level of endorphins increase after exercising. Similarly, serotonin levels also indicate an increase after exercising. Intake of oxygen increases after a good workout which is important in the formation of serotonin. Studies have shown that people who have been exercising all through their lives are less susceptible to depleted serotonin levels. Exercising for as little as 20 minutes a day is as good as any medical treatment to increase serotonin levels.

Sunlight
This is the cheapest and easiest method to increase serotonin naturally. Serotonin levels increase in bright sunshine while melatonin levels increase when there is no sunlight. Hence it is a good idea to take a quick small break towards late afternoon and head for a walk in the sun. The 20 minute exercise schedule (mentioned in the point above) can be planned at this time, if possible. Often it has been observed that towards the fag-end of the day, a lot of people crave for carbohydrates. However, a walk in the sunlight can prevent this craving.

Did you ever think it was this inexpensive to increase serotonin naturally? At the same time it is not a difficult task. If you have low serotonin levels, it is advisable to get a thyroid check done. It is the thyroid which is probably playing havoc with your serotonin levels. Also remember to eat healthy protein rich food in order to stay happy.