SEROTONIN participates in almost all body functions (not self-mood): What happens when there is not enough of it in our body?

Serotonin receptors are found throughout the brain, where they function and send messages from one area to another, but most of the serotonin in the human body is actually located in the gut, where it affects numerous biological processes, including digestion, appetite, metabolism, mood and memory.

As a neurotransmitter, serotonin controls nerve activity and plays a role in a wide range of neuropsychological processes.

Only two percent of serotonin in the body is found in the brain, and 95 percent is produced in the gut. In the brain, as a neurotransmitter, it sends chemical messages or signals to regulate motor function, pain perception, appetite…

Mood and memory

Studies show that low levels of serotonin in the brain are associated with poor memory and depressed mood. We also know that, in addition to serotonin, tryptophan is responsible for mood and cognitive health.

Researchers have been able to investigate and demonstrate the role of serotonin in the occurrence of depression by investigating the effects of lowering tryptophan levels in the diet, which leads to lower serotonin levels in the brain.

Regulation of digestion

Ninety-five percent of serotonin in the body is produced in the intestines, the portal writes draxe.com.

Research shows that this chemical plays a role in bowel movements and inflammatory processes in the intestines.

Pain relief

A study published in the journal Pain Research and Treatment found that there is an inverse correlation between postoperative pain levels in patients with chronic low back pain and serotonin levels.

Another study found that when healthy volunteers were subjected to acute tryptophan depletion, they experienced a significantly reduced pain threshold and tolerance.

Blood clotting

We need enough serotonin to promote blood clotting. This chemical is released in blood platelets to aid in wound healing. In addition, it works to narrow the small arteries so that they form blood clots.

While this benefit of serotonin aids in the healing process, there is also evidence that too much serotonin can lead to blood clots that contribute to heart disease, so it’s important to stay within normal limits to prevent side effects.

Wound healing

A study published in International Journal of Molecular Sciences found that serotonin acts as a potential therapy to improve skin wound healing in burn patients.

The researchers found that serotonin significantly accelerated cell motility and improved the wound healing process.

Symptoms and causes of deficiency

Research shows that impaired serotonin function is associated with psychiatric disorders, including: depression, anxiety, compulsive behavior, aggression, bulimia, hyperactivity in children…

Symptoms of low serotonin include the following conditions: panic attacks, changes in sleep and appetite, chronic pain, poor memory, headaches, digestive problems, irritability.

Researchers don’t know for sure what causes serotonin deficiency, but it may be due to genetics, poor diet and lifestyle.

If you struggle with chronic stress or are exposed to toxic substances, such as heavy metals or pesticides, you may be at greater risk of low serotonin levels. Other causes may include lack of sunlight and taking certain medications over a long period of time.

How to treat deficiency

There are natural foods and serotonin boosters that can increase serotonin levels without the need for pharmaceutical drugs.

Anti-inflammatory food

Some of the best foods that are good for balancing serotonin levels are salmon, eggs, leafy greens, nuts and fresh vegetables.

To increase the good bacteria in the gut, probiotic foods are also helpful. Drinking kefir, probiotic yogurt and apple cider vinegar help improve gut health.

Healthy fats, found in foods such as avocados, coconut oil, and extra virgin olive oil, also help reduce inflammation and boost the natural production of serotonin.

Exercise and the Sun

Research shows that exercise has a beneficial effect on brain function, because it favorably affects the neurotransmitters dopamine, serotonin and noradrenaline.

The neurotransmitter serotonin is not produced properly if there is not enough sunlight. Research suggests that there is actually a direct link between sunlight and serotonin production.

Exposure to sunlight is believed to trigger the brain to release this chemical.

Tryptophan

Research published in the journal Nutrients shows that reduced intake of tryptophan can lead to a significant reduction in certain brain activities that promote happiness.

According to the study, patients often manage to reduce negative symptoms related to mood disorders, addictions or hormonal problems when they take six grams of L-tryptophan per day. Taking this amount of tryptophan every day for several months has been shown to reduce mood swings, irritability, tension and restlessness.

Pet-HTP, or 5-hydroxytryptophan, is an amino acid produced naturally by the body. It is used to produce serotonin, which is why 5-HTP supplements are often used to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.