What Effect Does Seratonin Have on Weight Loss?

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter produced by the brain. This substance is also in the mucosa, the bloodstream and in the digestive tract. The body works to maintain this powerful neurotransmitter at optimal levels. Too much or too little serotonin in the body may effect weight management.

Function

• Low serotonin levels may create feelings of sadness.

  Serotonin influences mood, appetite, perception of pain, sexual arousal and body temperature. A small quantity of this neurotransmitter is first made in the brain, and then travels through the neurons of the "serotonin circuitry."

Expert Insight

• Low serotonin levels may create cravings for carbohydrates.

  Beth Israel Deaconess Research Center (BIDRC) researchers found that decreased serotonin is linked to increased appetite. The goal is to reduce or block the absorption of serotonin, so that adequate levels remain present in the blood stream.

Theories/Speculation

• Eating pasta may elevate serotonin.

  According to the American Heart Association, low levels of serotonin may cause cravings, specifically for carbohydrate-rich foods. Wurtzman and Frusztajer suggest that eating certain carbohydrates at specific times of the day and without protein raises serotonin levels.

Prevention/Solution

• Stabilize serotonin levels to resist cravings.

  The argument is that consuming certain carbohydrates in this manner acts as a mood regulator. If eating these carbohydrates increases serotonin levels, then the negative effects of low serotonin are eliminated.

Effects

• Obesity may be linked to serotonin levels.

  A popular weight loss drug targeted serotonin pathways in the brain to control appetite; however, the drug was later linked to serious cardiac complications and discontinued.

Potential

• BIDRC researchers are seeking novel ways to influence the synergistic interaction of the serotonin and melanocortin system pathways, which are linked to obesity. The hope is for more effective, safer weight loss drugs. The Serotonin Power Diet is another option which uses a food strategy to raise low serotonin levels.