| Serotonin and Gut Health |
Serotonin: Serotonin acts as a neurotransmitter, a type of chemical that helps relay signals from one area of the brain to another. Although serotonin is manufactured in the brain, some 90% of our serotonin supply is found in the digestive tract and in blood platelets. As a neurotransmitter, serotonin helps to relay messages from one area of the brain to another. Of the approximately 40 million brain cells, most are influenced either directly or indirectly by serotonin. This includes brain cells related to mood, sexual desire and function, appetite, sleep, memory and learning, temperature regulation, and some social behavior. An imbalance in serotonin levels may influence mood in a way that leads to depression. Common antidepressant medications known as SSRIs are designed to boost serotonin levels, help kick off the production of new brain cells, which in turn allows the depression to lift.http://www.webmd.com/depression/features/serotonin Serotonin Deficiency Symptoms: Anger and Agitation Anxiety Cognitive Impairment: Forgetfulness, poor memory retention Fatigue Impatience Indifference and Apathy Insomnia Mania Mood Swings Negative Thoughts Obsessive Thoughts Sadness Seasonal Affective Disorder: Increase foods rich in Vitamin D during seasonal months (Wild caught Fish, eggs, mushrooms, fortified orange juice, organic raw dairy) Strong Sugar Cravings: Eat protein or occasional paleo desserts (raw honey, maple, stevia) Worrying 90% of Serotonin is produced in the Gut * Eat your way to a happier mood,
increased sex drive, increased energy,more restful sleep,
better temperament, and cognitive ability. |