Serotonin and Depression

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that transports various signals, from one part of the brain to another. Serotonin also has other functions in the body, where it aids the digestion process. Most of the serotonin in the body is produced in the digestive tract. For a chemical that prevails largely in the digestive system than in the brain, studies have shown that serotonin plays an important role in the regulation of our moods and mood swings. Sexual desire, sleep, memory and concentration, body temperature, and even our appetite is influenced by the presence of serotonin in the body. As such, research has proven an association between serotonin and depression. What is the link between the two? Let's take a detailed look at this link, here.

The Link Between Serotonin and Depression

Research has proven that a serotonin deficiency in the body can lead to depression, by affecting a person's general mood. There are three ways in which the imbalance of serotonin can occur in the body:

• When there is poor production of serotonin by the brain
• The inability to receive this neurotransmitter by parts of the brain
• The lack of production of tryptophan, a chemical that is responsible for the production of serotonin

Any of these occurrences can lead to an imbalance in serotonin levels in the body, with one of its results being depression, along with anxiety and anger. A reason for these imbalances to occur has been identified as stress. Stress has the ability to alter a lot of bodily functions, and a lack of production of serotonin is known to be one of them.

Serotonin levels in the brain cannot be measured by means of any tests, yet it has been noticed that the intake of antidepressants has been known to induce serotonin production and thereby lead to a general uplifting of the mood and alleviation of the various depression symptoms. However, it is possible to measure the serotonin levels in the blood, and it has been noticed these levels are lower in those suffering from depression. Thus, though the etiology of depression is not related only to this chemical imbalance, it can be ultimately deduced that low serotonin levels have an effect on our moods and thereby, depression.

Increasing Serotonin Levels

There are methods by which you can increase serotonin naturally, and therefore, rid yourself of the depression that has been plaguing you. Some of these methods have been enlisted here.

• Though no foods are known to increase serotonin itself, a serotonin diet helps in increasing the production of tryptophan, which in turn is responsible for the production of serotonin. This diet comprises protein-rich foods that enhance the production of the amino acid tryptophan. As such, following this diet induces a general feeling of well-being.
• Exercise is also known to help increase the serotonin levels in the body. That is why, when you are depressed, you are asked to engage in some kind of physical activity, as this will help you to indirectly alleviate the depression.
• Other methods of improving serotonin levels in the body include the intake of depression medication such as antidepressants. However, this must be done only under the supervision of a doctor.

As mentioned earlier, serotonin is not the only reason one may be depressed. Certain environmental circumstances, as well as psychological conditions contribute to depression. Perhaps the link between serotonin and depression is that it induces a positive bent of mind, that does not allow the little things to bother and depress you. However, never assume that because you are depressed you can figure ways of increasing the serotonin levels in your body yourself. Without appropriate consultation, do not attempt to diagnose yourself. An excess of serotonin in the body can lead to the serotonin syndrome that causes physical symptoms that can be dangerous and detrimental to health. To physical complications along with the complications of the mind, it is better for you to consult a professional to address your problem, or then find ways to beat depression without drugs.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only and does not, in any way, intend to replace the advice of a medical expert.