References to serotonin and serotonin-boosting habits, activities, and even foods are common in today’s social media-based mental health discourse. But is improved happiness and well-being as simple as trying to increase your supply of this one single neurotransmitter? In truth, not everyone can benefit from a serotonin boost—in fact, too much serotonin in your body can actually make you feel worse (although serotonin toxicity is often a reaction to medication). On the other end, not enough serotonin is linked to mood disorders, sleep troubles, and more health effects. Here’s a breakdown of serotonin—why it’s important, the signs of serotonin deficiency and imbalances, and whether or not we have control over our own serotonin supply through lifestyle factors and behaviors. Here’s everything to know about this feel-good hormone, and how to boost serotonin in everyday life.
How Serotonin Works
To break down the science behind this happiness hormone, serotonin is essentially produced in the brain by neurons and travels to different receptor sites throughout the body to influence processes like sleep and digestion. There’s an ongoing debate in the medical community about whether or not low serotonin contributes to depression, but experimental research is showing a promising link between serotonin and emotion regulation, which is why there could be a connection to happiness or feeling good.
The Importance of Serotonin for Optimal Health
In addition to mood benefits, serotonin is an important player in your overall health. “Serotonin plays a role in regulating our mood, sleep and digestion, so maintaining healthy levels of this neurotransmitter can help us feel better emotionally and physically,” explains David Seitz, M.D., medical director at Ascendant Detox, an outpatient addiction treatment center. “Additionally, serotonin has been linked to improved cognitive functions such as learning, memory, and concentration.” Still, serotonin’s impact doesn’t end there. It even contributes to healing wounds, controlling nausea and healthy bowel movements.
Signs of Low Serotonin
Low serotonin can significantly disrupt your day-to-day functioning, and the signs can manifest in surprising ways. “Low levels of serotonin can have a range of consequences, including depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances, appetite changes, and irritability,” Dr. Seitz says. While there’s no one reason as to why serotonin levels might dip, a number of factors may contribute, including deficient diet, lack of exercise, genetic predisposition, medication side effects, or stressful events, he adds. “Additionally, some medical conditions like an underactive thyroid can also cause serotonin imbalances.”
How to Boost Serotonin in Everyday Life
There are a number of easy steps and lifestyle changes you can make to help boost your serotonin naturally (and are good for you in general!). If you suspect that your serotonin levels are off, however, be sure to consult a physician to rule out any underlying conditions, such as thyroid disease, before making any modifications.
