Serotonin is a major player in the regulation of mood and behaviour.  It also regulates appetite, the dilation of blood vessels and many other body processes.  Deficiency of serotonin leads to depression, anxiety, poor impulse control and possible aggression and obsessive behaviors.  Prescription antidepressants alter the amount of time serotonin is available for the brain cells to use or increase the amount of serotonin that is released.

Serotonin is released by the stomach in response to fullness signals to the brain that it is time to stop eating.  Deficiency of serotonin can lead to overeating and obesity.  This also accounts for the fact that when we are under stress our appetite tends to change.  Some people become deficient in serotonin and gain weight because they overeat.  Others lose their appetite partly because their brain is reacting to high levels of serotonin released during the stressful time.  Serotonin also decreases the diameter of blood vessels.  This is helpful in headaches and migraines that are caused by increased blood flow in the brain.

Serotonin is not safe for direct administration.  To enhance the body’s production of serotonin without taking serotonin itself there are several options.  Protein intake is important because it contains the amino acid tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin.  A supplement called 5-HTP is an activated form of tryptophan that can also be supplemented to help with the production of serotonin.  Vitamin B6, pyridoxine, acts in the cascade to produce serotonin, from tryptophan.  The absorption of B6 is improved if all of the B complex vitamins are taken along with it.  For specific information (dosing, safety issues, etc.) on the supplement mentioned follow the link.