Serotonin is an neurotransmitter within the brain, and is a vital part of proper brain functioning. According to researchers at the University of Dublin, serotonin effects moods, emotions, appetite and sleep, and has been called a "wonder drug," because it has numerous benefits and can help relieve a variety of problems. Extensive research has been done to assess these benefits.
Mental Health
The most significant benefit associated with serotonin has been the use of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), which increase serotonin levels. SSRIs are used to treat many psychological disorders, including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, obsessive compulsive disorder, and suicidal idealization.
According to Dr. Jack M. Gorman, professor of psychiatry at Columbia University, depression occurs at some time in about 25% of adults, and can be remedied in many cases by using these drugs.
Appetite
There appears to be a connection between serotonin and appetite. According to the American Heart Association, some experts think that people who crave carbohydrates have low serotonin levels. On the other side of the spectrum, the weight loss drug Fen/Phen that was on the market in the mid 1990s, increased serotonin levels in the brain.
Dr. Michael D. Gershon of Columbia University states that serotonin affects how much a person eats.
Sleep
Sleep is essential for good health and proper brain functioning. Research conducted at the University of Pennsylvania and published in 2006 showed that increasing serotonin levels within the brain lead to longer lasting and higher quality sleep in fruit flies. There can be many reasons for sleep disturbances other than a serotonin deficiency. However, increasing serotonin levels might still eventually play a role in treating sleep disorders.
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