Foods to Avoid Before a Serotonin Blood Test

The nerve cells in the body produce the chemical serotonin. The serotonin blood test is administered to test levels of this chemical in order to diagnose carcinoid syndrome. Serotonin levels are also significant factors in depression, but it is not yet known if this blood test is an effective diagnostic method for the disorder. In order to gain an accurate measurement of the body's actual serotonin levels, tea coffee, avocado, bananas, tomatoes, plums, walnuts, pineapple, eggplant should be avoided three days prior to the test.

Time Frame

Follow dietary restrictions for three days before the serotonin blood test is performed.

Foods to Avoid

Eating foods that boost serotonin before levels are checked, can alter the accuracy of the test results. Avoid eating walnuts, avocado, bananas, tomatoes, plums, pineapple and eggplant for three complete days prior to the blood draw. By eliminating foods that decrease or increase serotonin, a more accurate level of the chemical produced by the body itself will be measured. Avoid coffee, tea and other caffeine products for the same time frame as well.

Other Considerations

Three days prior, tobacco should be avoided as well. Nicotine increases serotonin levels and this would skew the test.

References

• Foods to avoid
• Serotonin information
• More about serotonin

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