Understanding This Neurotransmitter

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is a major player in the regulation of mood and behaviour. It also regulates appetite, the dilation of blood vessels and many other bodily processes. It influences sleep by helping regulate the sleep-wake cycle and promoting restful sleep. It also plays a key role in memory and learning, and supporting cognitive functions. Additionally, this neurotransmitter helps regulate digestive processes, as a large portion of it is found in the gut, where it impacts intestinal motility. It also contributes to bone health, wound healing, and even sexual function. Disruptions in serotonin levels can affect all of these systems, highlighting its importance in overall health.

Health Benefits of Serotonin

Deficiency of serotonin leads to depression, anxiety, poor impulse control and possible aggression and obsessive behaviours; therefore, serotonin's health benefits are the opposite of these health concerns. Prescription antidepressants alter the amount of time this neurotransmitter is available for the brain cells to use or increase the amount that is released.

How Does Serotonin Work in The Body?

Serotonin is released by the stomach in response to fullness signals to the brain that it is time to stop eating. Deficiency in this neurotransmitter 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 this neurotransmitter and gain weight because they overeat. Others lose their appetite partly because their brain is reacting to high levels of this neurotransmitter being released during the stressful episode. This neurotransmitter also decreases the diameter of blood vessels, which is helpful in headaches and migraines that are caused by increased blood flow in the brain.

Serotonin Boosting Supplements

Serotonin is not safe for direct administration. However, there are several options to enhance the body’s production without taking serotonin itself. Protein intake is important because it contains the amino acid tryptophan, a precursor to this neurotransmitter. 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.