Why is serotonin released

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How to Increase Serotonin. Dangers of Too Much Serotonin. The Chemistry of Depression. Many investigations have looked at serotonin and what it does, but there is still a lot to learn. In this article, we look at the role of serotonin in the body, uses of drugs that affect serotonin, side effects and symptoms of serotonin deficiency, and how to boost serotonin levels.

Serotonin is a result of tryptophan, a component of proteins, combining with tryptophan hydroxylase, a chemical reactor. Together, they form 5-HT, or serotonin. The intestines and the brain produce serotonin. It is also present in blood platelets and plays a role in the central nervous system CNS. Occurring throughout the body, it appears to influence a range of physical and psychological functions.

Serotonin is also present in animals, plants, and fungi. For this reason, some people have looked at food as a possible source of serotonin. Serotonin cannot cross the blood-brain barrier. This means that the brain must produce any serotonin that it needs to use.

Treatments for depression and other mental health issues do not supply serotonin directly but trigger reactions that can boost serotonin levels in the brain. However, research suggests that sources of serotonin in other areas, such as the digestive system, may work independently of serotonin in the brain. This could have implications for the treatment and prevention of various physiological conditions, such as bone degeneration.

As a neurotransmitter, serotonin relays signals between nerve cells and regulates their intensity. Scientists believe it plays a role in mood and the CNS and affects functions throughout the body. It may have an impact on:. Scientists do not know precisely what causes depression, but one theory is that it stems from an imbalance of neurotransmitters in the body.

Doctors commonly prescribe selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors SSRIs as antidepressants. Fluoxetine Prozac is one example. Normally, the body reabsorbs a neurotransmitter after it has transmitted its neural impulse.

SSRIs stop the body from reabsorbing serotonin, leaving higher levels of serotonin to circulate. Many people find SSRIs help relieve their symptoms, although the link between depression and serotonin remains unclear. One problem for researchers is that, while they can measure serotonin levels in the bloodstream, they cannot measure its levels in the brain.

As a result, they do not know whether serotonin levels in the bloodstream reflect those in the brain. It is also impossible to know whether SSRIs can really affect the brain. Mouse studies have produced conflicting evidence. Some suggest that increasing serotonin levels can help reduce stress and depression, but others indicate that serotonin levels make no difference. Nevertheless, if scientists have not yet proven the serotonin theory of depression, SSRIs do appear to help many people.

Apart from depression, doctors may prescribe drugs that regulate serotonin levels to treat a number of other disorders , including:. As with depression, some scientists have questioned whether serotonin is the only factor impacting these conditions. Learn more about how to stop a panic attack here. SSRIs increase serotonin levels by preventing the body from reabsorbing serotonin neurotransmitters.

Learn more about SSRIs and other antidepressants here. Serotonin affects every part of your body. Sometimes, a serotonin imbalance can mean something more serious. Here are 7 serotonin-boosting foods including turkey and cheese. Learn more…. There are several health benefits of sunlight. Adding a little sunshine to…. Being active and exercising regularly is beneficial to most people, but especially those with MDD.

These motivating reasons are bound to provide the…. Alcohol is a sedative and a depressant that affects the central nervous system. Drinking can help you relax, but it can also make you feel anxious. SSRIs are a type of antidepressant medication. Learn about these commonly prescribed drugs, including side effects, how they work, and examples. If you're wondering about your options for AFib medications, consult our explanatory list of AFib drugs to help yourself control your condition. Watching a friend live with depression can be painful, but there are ways to help.

Learn what to do, avoid, and how to recognize the signs of suicidal…. People who experience anhedonia have a decreased ability to feel pleasure. Learn causes, risk factors, and treatments for anhedonia. Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Mental Health. Serotonin: What You Need to Know.

Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. Functions Mental health Normal range Serotonin boosters Serotonin syndrome Takeaway Share on Pinterest We include products we think are useful for our readers.

What does serotonin do? Serotonin and mental health. Normal ranges for serotonin levels. How to treat serotonin deficiency. About serotonin syndrome. The bottom line.