What Happens If Your Body Makes More Serotonin?

Your mood can affect your whole day. If you are feeling tired and unhappy, chances are you will not get much done during the day. If you feel happy and alert, on the other hand, you will be much more inclined to get some work done. Your mood is controlled by chemicals in your brain like serotonin. The higher the levels of serotonin found in your body, the more elevated your mood. Increasing production can be as simple changing your diet and lifestyle.

Serotonin

• Neurotransmitters are chemicals that help nerve cells communicate with one another. Serotonin, like dopamine and norepinephrine, is a type of neurotransmitter. Your brain produces serotonin and it is found mainly in your brain, blood platelets and in the lining of your digestive tract. The levels of serotonin vary between each individual and are affected by a number of factors. These factors include drugs, alcohol, heredity and hormones.

Effects

• Serotonin elevates your mood and provides you with a feeling of general satisfaction. Increased levels can improve your general mood, making you feel happier. In addition, serotonin can provide relaxation and calm -- allowing you to sleep better. Serotonin can also increase concentration and focus, and increased levels can help ease symptoms caused by depression, stress or anxiety.

Production

• Research by Judith Wurtman, a professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), suggests that serotonin production can partly be attributed to what you eat. Temporary increases in serotonin can be achieved by eating sweets, fruit, pasta, cereal and other grains. For increased concentration and focus, you can eat proteins such as meat, peanut butter, cheese, beans and eggs.

  Serotonin production can be increased with regular exercise, as well, putting you in an overall good mood. Waking up early and exposing yourself to the sun can also increase levels of serotonin in your body.

Decreased Production

• Just like you can increase serotonin production, you can also decrease production. Lack of sleep and exercise, an unbalanced diet and a high level of stress can all decrease serotonin production. This can result in a multitude of health risks such as chronic fatigue, arthritis, anxiety, irritability and depression.