Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is a happiness hormone like Dopamine. But where Dopamine boosts motivation and productivity by way of reward, Serotonin boosts positive energy and calmness (mental health).
It is responsible for proper digestion, low blood pressure, quality sleep, and maintaining a lively internal body environment. This ranges from blood clotting to cognition, memory to bone health.
When put this way, it puts health measures like exercise, healthy diet, sunshine, among others in perspective. They are a support system for this hormone.
There might be some truth to the saying "money doesn't buy happiness...Serotonin does".
Rather than thinking about being healthy as an abstract thing that doctors talk about, boosting this hormone can become a motivator of healthy habits.
Effects of low Serotonin levels
Poor digestion. The intestines produce the largest amount of Serotonin in the body meaning that it is important for gut health and activity. Disturbances in the digestive system could signal low Serotonin.
Flactuating or low mood. Serotonin is responsible for positive feelings even when you are under stress. It decreases feelings of anxiety and low mood.
Poor sleep. The brain converts Serotonin into Melatonin which improves focus, relaxation and deep sleep. Low levels of Serotonin means low Melatonin which causes disturbances in sleep and rest.
Delayed healing. The Blood platelets store most of the body's Serotonin meaning it is responsible for adequate recovery from injury and wounds.
Body frailty. Serotonin is essential in enhancing bone density through the brain's serotonergic system.
Simple ways to naturally boost Serotonin
Talk to a therapist or trusted person.
You don't have to wait until you 'need' to talk to someone. Cumulative stress and anxiety suppresses Serotonin production which affects proper bodily function.
Talking about and managing stress and anxiety causes can mitigate these effects.
Get some sunshine time
Forget about Vitamin D. Spending time in the sun and outdoors activates production of Serotonin.
Aerobic exercise
Swimming, cycling, walking, rowing and exercise that targets the upper body, stimulates the Serotonin positive jolt from doing these activities.
Diet
The amino acid Tryptophan found in bananas, beans, fatty fish, chicken, eggs, cheese, among other foods, faciliates production of Serotonin.
This amino acid is essential in normal growth in infants and the production plus maintenance of the body's proteins, muscles and enzymes.
Dietary supplements and medication for Serotonin require medical consultation. Otherwise, you risk getting Serotonin Syndrome, a condition where a new medication boosts Serotonin levels too far.
Exceedingly high Serotonin levels have just as bad effects as low levels. They include fluctuation in blood pressure, seizures, increased anxiety and nervous energy, among others.