Naturally Occurring Sources of Seratonin

Serotonin is a naturally occurring chemical in the body which serves primarily as a neurotransmitter. Neurotransmitters help to relay information from one part of the brain to another. Although this essential function of serotonin occurs in the brain, around 90% of a person's serotonin supply is found in the digestive tract and in blood platelets. According to WebMD, serotonin may help regulate a host of brain and body functions, including mood, sleep, appetite, sexual desire, temperature regulation and memory.

Dietary Choices

• Fortified cereals containing vitamin B-6 can boost serotonin production.

  The production of serotonin is a biochemical conversion process which begins with an amino acid called tryptophan. While there aren't foods which directly increase the level of serotonin in the bloodstream, a carbohydrate-rich meal can clear the way for tryptophan to do its work. Ingesting carbs triggers a release of insulin, which causes other amino acids to be absorbed by the body, rather than the brain. The one exception is tryptophan, which remains in the blood stream in high levels, traveling to the brain and upping serotonin production.

  Another dietary choice which WebMD says influences the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin is taking in more vitamin B-6. Foods that contain high levels of B-6 include fortified cereals, meats, fish, poultry, and many fruits and vegetables.

Exposure to Sunlight

• More sunlight can equal more serotonin.

  In a study released in 2008 by researchers at the University of Toronto, as reported by Psychiatric News, substantial evidence was found to support the link between exposure to sunlight and serotonin levels in the brain. Participants in the study had lower levels of the chemical during the months in which the hours of sunlight were less than in the spring and summer.

  The natural conclusion that could be drawn from this and other studies is that more exposure to daylight can elevate serotonin levels and mood. Some depression sufferers report significant improvement when they make a conscious effort to spend time outdoors.

Exercise

• Exercise boosts mood, and serotonin may play a role.

  Some experts believe that regular exercise raises serotonin levels in the brain. While a direct connection between physical activity and an increase in serotonin has not been proven, most agree that exercise improves mood, according to WebMD. While it's unclear exactly how this process takes place, and whether it is an increase in serotonin or some other chemical which is responsible, most mental health experts recommend the practice for those suffering from mood disorders. Outdoor exercise, notably, can reap the benefits of both the exercise and the exposure to sunlight.