What is serotonin?
Why are serotonin levels important?
Low levels of serotonin
What causes a lack of serotonin?
What role does serotonin play in the body?
Exercise regularly
Get more light
Try a supplement
Hug your pet
Socialize with loved ones
Manage caffeine intake
Listen to calming music or read positive affirmations
Use aromatherapy
Practice positive thinking

What is serotonin?

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, which means that brain and nervous system cells use it to communicate with one another. It's a hormone that plays an important role in regulating mood, sleep, and your digestive system.

Why are serotonin levels important?

Adequate serotonin levels are important for your mental and physical health. Too little serotonin can increase your risk of depression, as well as other mental health challenges like anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Low levels of serotonin

Low levels of serotonin have also been associated with the development of certain diseases, including chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's disease.

What causes a lack of serotonin?

An exact cause for low serotonin levels hasn't been found. However, several factors may play a role, such as genetics, brain and gut health, environmental factors, and mental health.

What role does serotonin play in the body?

Serotonin plays a vital role in most major organ systems, including the cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and central nervous systems.

Exercise regularly

Research shows that people who get regular exercise in have higher levels of serotonin than sedentary folks. Whether it's walking, yoga, or cycling, any type of exercise can be effective at boosting serotonin. Try to get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise in three times per week.

Get more light

Research shows that spending time in the sunshine helps increase serotonin levels. For at least 30 minutes, chill in your backyard, take a walk around the block, or simply sit near a sunny window.

Try a supplement

If you're not able to get enough sunlight, eat a balanced diet, or exercise regularly, taking a supplement may help increase your serotonin levels.

Hug your pet

Pets offer emotional support, which has a positive effect on serotonin levels and oxytocin, another 'happy' neurotransmitter associated with improved mood and sociability.

Socialize with loved ones

Socializing is imperative for many aspects of wellness. When you let your guard down around friends or trusted family members, you can experience feelings of confidence, togetherness, and empathy, which help boost serotonin levels.

Manage caffeine intake

While caffeine gives a temporary boost in energy and mood, chronic and excessive coffee consumption eventually contributes to serotonin depletion, which can negatively impact your mental health. Therefore, pay attention to your intake.

Listen to calming music or read positive affirmations

Listening to calming music or reading positive affirmations can help you relax and focus on the positive. This, in turn, can help increase your serotonin levels.

Laugh

Laughing has been associated with the brain's release of serotonin, oxytocin, and other feel-good chemicals. Laughing also triggers a natural release of endorphins, which can help when you're feeling down.

Use aromatherapy

Aromatherapy has been shown to be effective in reducing stress and promoting relaxation, both of which can help increase serotonin levels. Opt for calming essential oils like lavender and chamomile.