Have you ever heard of Happy Hormone Serotonin? What does it do to our bodies?  If I tell you that your happiness is linked to this hormone or neurotransmitter, you may wonder. Your wonder will leap further if I tell you that around 85% of this neurotransmitter is made in our gut. The wonder will further jump to know that there is a link between our gut health and our happiness.

Yes, there are other factors too that have a role in our happiness, but the crucial role played by this single hormone outweighs the role of other hormones.

Our mood, our sleep, our appetite, our cardio- vascular system,our digestive system,  healing of our wounds are among the several functions impacted by this single hormone.

Low levels of serotonin have been linked with depression and anxiety, while higher levels are associated with feelings of happiness and well-being.

Facts related to Happy Hormone Serotonin

 Serotonin neurotransmitter chemical structure

• Serotonin is responsible for carrying messages between the brain and the rest of the body.
• It is known as 5-HT i.e. 5-hydroxytryptamine.
• Most of our Serotonin i.e. 85% is produced in our large intestine; only around 15% is manufactured in our brain.
• Tryptophan is changed into Serotonin. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that our body can not make.
• Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a big role in our mood.
• When we feel happy, it’s because serotonin levels are high.
• Low levels of serotonin are linked to depression anxiety and other mental health issues
• Conversely, when serotonin levels are high, we tend to feel happy and content.
• High levels of serotonin can also help to reduce anxiety and improve sleep.
• Serotonin is often referred to as the “happy chemical” because of its ability to boost our mood.

There are many ways to increase serotonin levels.  One way is to get regular exercise. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Exercise also helps to reduce stress and anxiety, which can lead to increased serotonin levels.

Another way to increase serotonin levels is to eat foods that are rich in tryptophan. viz turkey, chicken, fish, nuts, seeds, pineapples, legumes, Cheese, Tofu, and eggs.

Getting enough sleep is also important for increasing serotonin levels. Sleep deprivation can lead to decreased serotonin levels. Make sure to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night to help keep your serotonin levels stable.

Finally, spending time with loved ones and participating in social activities can also help increase serotonin levels naturally. Positive social interactions help release oxytocin, another “happy” hormone that can boost mood and counteract stress hormones like cortisol.

Conclusion

In conclusion, serotonin is an important neurotransmitter that plays a major role in regulating our mood and general well-being. We’ve seen how low levels of serotonin can lead to depression and anxiety while higher levels are linked to feeling content and happy. It’s clear that having enough serotonin helps us feel balanced which is essential for good mental health.