This article looks at natural ways to increase serotonin. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter responsible for mood stabilization. It also helps with sleep regularity and mental focus. Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsion, insomnia, chronic pain, premenstrual syndrome and menopause symptoms. Many things can naturally interfere with serotonin levels: lack of exercise, caffeine, poor diet, alcohol use, and stress. Many things can also be use as natural ways to increase serotonin.
Vitamins B6 and B12 both help to manufacture serotonin and are natural ways to increase serotonin. Foods rich in B6 include grains, sunflower seeds, walnuts, legumes, potatoes, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, brown rice, bananas and avocados. Plenty to choose from. B12 works with folic acid in serotonin production. Here, you can try eggs, fish, cheese and meat. Kidney and liver are also loaded with B12.
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid and is the only nutrient the body can use to make serotonin. It is found in cottage cheese, turkey, red meats, milk, chicken, eggs, soybeans, tofu and nuts.
Fat, especially omega-3 is also used to make serotonin. A good quality fish oil supplement is one to get what you need. You can also eat cold water fish like salmon and sardines.
Make an effort to keep your guts healthy for natural ways to increase serotonin. Your gut, or intestinal tract, makes about 90 to 95% of serotonin. Eat plenty of fiber to keep it clean and healthy. Introduce and maintain good bacteria by taking a probiotic. Eliminating processed foods will also make your gut happy.
Exercise is part of natural ways to increase serotonin as it effects the entire body positively including serotonin production. It relieves stress and aids in digestion. People with low serotonin have to push through since they are generally too tired to exercise. Exercise will create the energy to do more exercise.
Finally try natural light in natural ways to increase serotonin. Get at least thirty minutes a week to avoid decreased serotonin levels and avoid seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Source: LiveStrong, Dr. Weil
Call 1-877-398-2002 Anytime To Discuss Treatment Options if you or a loved one is struggling with mental health issues.
To search by State and City instead of by Zip Code / Postal Code, select a state from the list below.
For individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
The information provided on the PsyWeb.com is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between a patient/site visitor and his/her health professional. This information is solely for informational and educational purposes. The publication of this information does not constitute the practice of medicine, and this information does not replace the advice of your physician or other health care provider. Neither the owners or employees of PsyWeb.com nor the author(s) of site content take responsibility for any possible consequences from any treatment, procedure, exercise, dietary modification, action or application of medication which results from reading this site. Always speak with your primary health care provider before engaging in any form of self treatment. Please see our Legal Statement for further information.
SupportGroups.com provides a support network for those dealing with mental health and other life's challenges. Click on the following links to get the support in a confidential, caring environment.
