How to Treat Low Serotonin Levels
Serotonin is a chemical called a neurotransmitter that is essential for normal functioning of the brain in mammals. Humans metabolize serotonin by an amino acid or incomplete protein, called tryptophan. Research shows that serotonin has a significant effect on the mood for a newer class of antidepressant drugs called "serotonin reuptake inhibitors". These medications include the commonly prescribed Zoloft, Prozac and Paxil medications. One effect of these medications is to increase serum serotonin levels, or the amount of serotonin circulating in the blood. It may or may not be true that happy people have higher concentrations of serum serotonine than sad people do.
Steps to follow:
Eat a diet rich in carbohydrates to increase serotonin levels. Complex carbohydrates are foods rich in sugars and carbohydrates, including bread, pasta and rice. Some medical authorities claim that the insulin your body produces when you eat carbohydrates increases the levels of tryptophan in the brain, and this results in a higher concentration of serotonin levels.
Eat foods that contain protein. Not all foods have some type of protein such as the amino acid tryptophan. Meat, fish, milk, cheese and soy do contain tryptophan.
Some research on Buddhist monks and Franciscan nuns indicates that meditation and prayer can increase serotonin levels.
Some research says that a chemical called melatonin reduces serotonin levels and sunlight decreases the amount of melatonin in the blood. Therefore, it's recommended to expose yourself to bright light in order to increase serotonin levels.
There are several studies such as those conducted by the National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence that have profusely recommended exercise to increase levels of serotonin as well as directly affecting the mood of those who practice some kind of aerobic exercise on a regular basis.
Apart from the health benefits of Saint John's Wort, this plant is said to help with cases of depression and can help prevent low levels of serotonin.
This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.
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