Does insufficient serotonin cause depression? Let's take a look at the effects of serotonin, excessive intake, and side effects all at once. The insufficient production of serotonin is closely associated with lifestyle habits and factors that contribute to its deficiency.
Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter primarily secreted in the brain and intestines. It plays a significant role in regulating emotions, sleep, appetite, and stress in the human body. Additionally, serotonin has a certain degree of influence on body temperature and the digestive function of the gastrointestinal tract.
5 reasons for insufficient serotonin:
The insufficient production of serotonin is closely associated with lifestyle habits. For example, inadequate sleep is one of the factors. But what are the other reasons that contribute to serotonin deficiency? They include excessive stress, lack of exercise, irregular sleep patterns, chronic illnesses and medication effects, and genetic factors.
4 methods to increase serotonin:
1. Choose appropriate foods: Consume foods rich in tryptophan, vitamin B6, and vitamin D.
2. Regular exercise and sunlight exposure: Engage in regular physical activity; sunlight exposure also helps increase serotonin levels and improve mood.
3. Improve sleep quality: Cultivate healthy sleep habits, maintain good sleep quality, and establish a regular sleep schedule.
4. Relaxation and stress reduction: Reduce stress through meditation, deep breathing, relaxation techniques, and other methods to help maintain serotonin levels.
Beware of “serotonin syndrome” when serotonin levels are excessive:
Excessive serotonin levels in the body typically occur as a result of certain medications (rather than diet). This can lead to “serotonin syndrome,” with side effects such as restlessness, abnormal excitement, agitation, confusion, tremors, fever, sweating, hyperreflexia, uncoordinated movements, or diarrhea.
The relationship between serotonin and depression:
Imbalances in neurotransmitters can be a major cause of depression. Neurotransmitters involved include dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. These neurotransmitters enable the brain to carry out important physiological regulations such as movement, emotions, and memory. Therefore, an imbalance in neurotransmitters can be a significant contributing factor in the development of depression.
Source: Neowave