Discover the main role of the happiness hormone

Did you know that our emotional health depends largely on a neurotransmitter called serotonin? In fact, this hormone plays a central role in regulating our mood, sleep, and appetite. However, many people suffer from an imbalance in this hormone, which may lead to health problems such as depression and insomnia. In this article, I invite you to discover the essential role of serotonin in the body and how to improve its level naturally to improve our health.

What is serotonin?

Serotonin, also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is a neurotransmitter found primarily in our nervous system, but also in our digestive system and blood. It is often called the “happy hormone” because it plays a crucial role in regulating our mood, well-being and emotional balance. Serotonin is synthesized from an amino acid called tryptophan, which is found in our diet.

Neurotransmitter and hormone

Serotonin, as a neurotransmitter, plays an important role in transmitting signals between nerve cells in the brain. It acts on receptors located on the surface of nerve cells, thus modifying nerve cell activity and influencing various brain functions. Meanwhile, serotonin is also considered a hormone because it is produced and released by non-neuronal cells, especially in the digestive system. In this context, it acts mainly on smooth muscles and blood vessels, thus modulating intestinal motility and vasodilation.

The role of serotonin in the brain

Mood regulation

Serotonin, as a mood regulator, plays a crucial role in our emotional health. It helps maintain a balance between positive and negative emotions, which is essential for our mental health. When serotonin levels are balanced, we feel more relaxed, focused, and satisfied with our daily lives.

Serotonin is produced in different areas of the brain, especially in the limbic system, which is responsible for regulating emotions. Serotonergic neurons, which produce and release serotonin, are also found in the raphe of the brainstem. This area is involved in regulating emotional responses and communication between different parts of the brain.

Serotonin imbalance can cause mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and stress. Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), increase the availability of serotonin in the brain. It is commonly prescribed to treat depression and other mood disorders.

Sleep management

Serotonin also plays an important role in sleep management. It is closely related to melatonin, a hormone secreted by the pineal gland, which regulates the sleep-wake cycle. Serotonin acts as a precursor to melatonin: When serotonin levels increase, melatonin production is stimulated, which promotes sleep.

The circadian cycle, our internal biological clock, regulates the production of serotonin and melatonin throughout the day. Daylight and darkness also affect the production of these two hormones. Exposure to daylight increases serotonin levels, while darkness stimulates melatonin production.

Serotonin imbalance can lead to sleep disorders, such as insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, and circadian rhythm disturbances. To promote good sleep, it is necessary to maintain a good balance of serotonin. This can be achieved by adopting good sleep habits, such as adhering to a regular sleep schedule, avoiding screens before bed, and creating a suitable sleep environment. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can also help regulate serotonin and melatonin levels and improve sleep quality.

Other important functions

In addition to regulating mood and sleep, serotonin is involved in other essential functions of our body, such as regulating appetite, pain management, memory, and libido.

Causes and consequences of serotonin deficiency

depression

Low serotonin levels can lead to depressive disorders. In fact, several studies have shown that people with depression generally have serotonin levels below normal. Taking antidepressants, such as fluoxetine, sertraline, and citalopram, can help increase serotonin levels and thus improve mood.

Sleep disorders

Serotonin imbalance can also cause sleep problems, such as insomnia, frequent waking, and daytime sleepiness. It is important to treat these disorders to avoid long-term health consequences, such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Other health problems

Serotonin deficiency may also be associated with other health conditions, such as migraines, eating disorders, fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome. It is therefore necessary to maintain balanced levels of serotonin to prevent these conditions.

How to increase serotonin levels naturally?

Diet rich in tryptophan

A diet rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that produces serotonin, can help increase levels of this hormone. Foods rich in tryptophan include eggs, fish, meat, dairy products, legumes, nuts and seeds. Make sure to include these foods in your diet to boost serotonin synthesis.

Physical exercise

Physical activity has also been shown to increase serotonin levels. Regular exercise, especially endurance activities such as running, swimming or cycling, stimulates the production of this hormone and helps improve mood and well-being.

Phototherapy

Sunlight is an important factor in serotonin production. Daily exposure to natural light, especially in the morning, can help increase levels of this hormone. If there is a lack of sunlight, phototherapy, which involves exposing yourself to intense artificial light that mimics daylight, can also be effective.

Stress management

Learning how to manage stress is also essential to maintaining balanced serotonin levels. Techniques such as meditation, relaxation, yoga, or deep breathing can help reduce stress and boost serotonin production.

Your frequently asked questions

The last word

Serotonin is an essential molecule that affects many functions in the body and brain. It plays a central role in regulating mood and managing sleep, contributing to our overall well-being. Understanding the mechanisms behind serotonin's role as a neurotransmitter and hormone can help us adopt healthy lifestyle habits and effectively manage mood and sleep disorders.