First of all, what is serotonin? Serotonin is a chemical that helps relay signals from one area of the brain to another. Serotonin is manufactured in the brain. That’s where it performs it’s major function. However, 90% of our Serotonin is in the digestive tract and in the blood.
It is believed Serotonin influences a variety of mind and body functions. It affects brain cells related to mood, sexual desire and function, appetite, sleep, memory and learning, temperature regulation and some social behaviors. It affects the function of our heart and muscles.
There are ways to increase Serotonin levels: 1) A diet of whole grain carbs and low in protein (Inhibitors are whole wheat and rye bread
). 2) Acupuncture has been known to stimulate the release of Serotonin. 3) Fruits such as dates, papaya and bananas. 4) Prescription drugs.
However the very best way to raise Serotonin levels would be to get exercise. Studies have shown that Serotonin levels are raised with increased activity and it is increased for some days after the activity. This is the safest way of increasing Serotonin levels. Exercise affects the biology in the brain the same way anti-depression drugs do.
Researchers believe men and women may use Serotonin differently. Men and women react differently to a reduction. This may be why women suffer from depression more than men. Men become impulsive but not depressed. Women experience a marked drop in mood and become more cautious. This is a response common in depression.
Several research centers around the world noted a Serotonin deficiency in Alzheimer’s patients.
Increasing muscle is important in Serotonin levels. Muscles don’t use the amino acid needed to make Serotonin.
Instead of using drugs to fight depression, evidence reveals that exercise can be a natural route to treating mild depression. Patients can learn how to treat themselves without relying on prescription drugs.
Winter generally makes us all more depressed. A winter workout is very important. During our recent snow storms I increased my muscles building exercises just to keep me happier. And it worked!
February 4, 2009 at 7:00 pm
I loved this post! More exercise and less prescription drugs! I have heard and read several times that exercise is far more effective at combating depression than anti depressants.
February 5, 2009 at 10:28 pm
Great information. Thanks.
I know that when I don’t feel like running and push myself to do it anyway, I always feel a lot better after the run.
gaj
February 10, 2009 at 11:15 pm
Hey Greg
Thanks for the comment