Where is my Happy Pill?

You may know that low levels of the brain's chemical serotonin are often associated with depression. However, it's been difficult for scientists to measure its natural fluctuations. A recent study provides the first glimpse at monitoring Serotonin in humans in real-time.

 Several patients scheduled for brain surgery without full anesthesia volunteered to have a special microelectrode inserted during their procedure. The device tracked their serotonin levels while they performed a psychological test following the movement of a random dot.

 

In addition to providing a breakthrough in measuring Serotonin, this study by neuroscientists at University College London produced several other important findings. It confirmed Serotonin's involvement in a wide range of cognitive functions and showed how it affects different parts of the brain.

 

These findings could help create more effective treatments for many conditions, including depression and Parkinson's Disease.

 

Meanwhile, there are things you can do to increase your serotonin levels now. Learn more about the benefits of Serotonin and how it affects your health.

 

Understanding the Benefits of Serotonin

 

Serotonin does much more than help govern your brain's pleasure and reward centers. It's also involved in general cognition and many body functions.

 

Did you know Serotonin:

 

1. Reduce depression and anxiety. Imbalances in Serotonin can affect your mood. Some of the most popular antidepressants like Prozac work by blocking the reabsorption of Serotonin, so you have more available in your brain.
   
   
2. Enhance your digestion. You might be surprised to hear that most of your Serotonin is in your gastrointestinal tract. Your gut microbiome helps control your digestion, as well as your immune system and brain health. This is why what you eat affects your mood.
   
   
3. Lose weight. Serotonin is also a natural appetite suppressant. Balancing your brain chemicals could curb your carbohydrate cravings.
   
   
4. Sleep well. Do you have trouble sleeping? Different serotonin receptors help control both sleeping and waking. They could be the answer to your insomnia.
   
   
5. Be social. Serotonin might even help you to make friends and impress your boss. It's one of the brain chemicals that makes it easier to cooperate with others and deal with challenging situations.

 

So How Can I Increase My Serotonin Levels?

 

Brain chemistry is complicated, so Serotonin is just one factor in mood regulation and other processes.

 

Try experimenting with these natural home remedies for boosting your serotonin levels:

 

1. Exercise regularly. Staying active helps your body to produce more Serotonin and use it more effectively. Smart choices include aerobic activities like biking and running. If you don't have time for formal exercise, just get your body moving; dance around the house or go for a brisk walk (walking in mather nature is a double whammy!!)
   
   
2. Adjust your diet. Your body makes Serotonin by breaking down tryptophan, an amino acid found in certain foods. You can find it in nuts, cheese, poultry, eggs, and salmon. You may also want to eat more probiotics like yogurt and tempeh that increase tryptophan levels too.
   
   
3. Turn up the lights. Inadequate exposure to light can lead to serotonin deficiencies. Spend time outdoors each day. If you experience winter depression, ask your doctor about light therapy.
   
   
4. Manage stress. Help Serotonin along by staying upbeat. Make time in your schedule for laughter and relaxation. Time with family and friends, watch a comedy or read a good book.
   
   
5. Book a massage. One study found that a massage increases serotonin levels by almost 30%. Get a professional massage or learn to do it yourself or with a partner.
   
   
6. Consider supplements. Products that may increase Serotonin include pure tryptophan, folic acid, and vitamin B12. For your safety, let your doctor know about any supplements you take.

 

There's abundant evidence that Serotonin helps make us happy, as well as affecting many aspects of our behavior and decision-making. Try natural methods for increasing serotonin and talk with your doctor if you think you may be depressed or have other symptoms that concern you.

Like my posts? Please follow me on Facebook or Instagram under Recovery Enthusiast. I also have a podcast on Anchor and Spotify under Motivations 4U. I'm also on YouTube; you can follow my journey. And to learn more about my guides to recovery, go to recoveryenthusiast.com

 

As always, stay blessed and live your life Enthusiastically!!