Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is found in the central nervous system and impacts multiple functions like:
- Appetite
- Mood
- Sexuality
- Sleep
This neurotransmitter may also promote cell regeneration.
People who have reduced serotonin levels can also have higher cholesterol, hip to waist ratios, increased blood pressure, and high triglyceride levels.
You can link the disruption of sleep patterns and other conditions like stress, anxiety, and depression with reduced levels of serotonin.
What can help you to increase your happiness hormones?
Tryptophan is an amino acid that is converted into serotonin.
High tryptophan foods include:
- Eggs, milk, tofu, and cheese;
- Fish: tuna and salmon;
- Honey;
- Nuts and seeds;
- Oats, beans, lentils, and pineapples;
- Red meat, chicken, and turkey;
The recommended daily intake for tryptophan is 4mg per kilogram of body weight or 1.8mg per pound.
If you change your lifestyle, it can lead to improved serotonin levels.
To make them consistent, you should:
- Follow regular sleep patterns;
- Include essential vitamins and minerals in your daily food to control these levels.
- Avoid certain drugs and psycho-active substances like caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and antidepressants because they may deplete serotonin production.
Take the following amino acids:
- The amino acid 5-HTP improve the body’s ability to manufacture serotonin.
- L-tryptophan is used by the body to produce serotonin.
However, before taking these supplements, I advise you to seek the approval of your doctor or other health professionals.
Individuals who work at night should maintain adequate rest periods to lessen ill-effects that may develop.
A healthy lifestyle and nutritious foods may improve serotonin levels as well as the overall quality of life.
Other ways to boost serotonin are:
- Exercise regularly, it can have antidepressant effects.
- Boost your mood. Have a daily lunchtime walk outside and make it a habit.
- Face everyday life and your interactions with others with a positive approach. It can significantly increase your serotonin levels.
Did you ever think that positivity can increase your serotonin levels? What other methods do you use to boost your mood?