Serotonin Deficiency Disease
Serotonin deficiency disease occurs when serotonin levels in the body fall to an unhealthy level. Serotonin works to regulate appetite, mood, sleep, and cognitive function. In most cases, simple lifestyle changes can reverse serotonin deficiency.
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The Role of Tryptophan
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The amino acid tryptophan converts to serotonin and becomes the brain's crucial source for the neurotransmitter. Insufficient amounts of this amino acid can lead to anxiety, depression and other symptoms of serotonin deficiency.
Causes of Serotonin Deficiency
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Insulin resistance, stress, lifestyle, and excessive use of antidepressants can contribute to a drop in serotonin levels. Exposure to pesticides, PCBs (polychlorinated biphenols) and some plastics can also advance serotonin and tryptophan depletion.
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Symptoms of Deficiency
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Serotonin deficiency manifests in a number of ways including fatigue, impaired cognitive function, panic attacks, compulsive behavior and anxiety. Depression is most common and can exhibit as mild to severe and vary in duration.
The Role of a Healthy Diet
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Found in dairy products, fish, poultry, nuts, and grains, tryptophan plays a pivotal role in the prevention of serotonin deficiency. Caffeine and alcohol intake should be limited; both deplete tryptophan and serotonin in the body. Diets low in protein contribute to the depletion of essential amino acids such as tryptophan.
Additional Ways to Increase Serotonin Levels
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Increasing exposure to natural sunlight, supplements, meditation, and positive thinking can aid with increasing and maintaining healthy serotonin levels.
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- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Nicole Makauskas
