Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter that is found throughout the body. According to Macalester.edu, serotonin is responsible for central nervous system functions, behavioral regulation, mood, eating patterns and sleep habits. Levels of serotonin are controlled partially by the brain and partially by personal lifestyle choices, such as diet. Understanding the potential sources of serotonin can provide insight into how to manage serotonin levels more effectively.
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors
Though their name implies that they limit serotonin production, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors actually work to make more serotonin available in the body. MayoClinic.com notes that SSRIs block the reabsorption of serotonin by brain nerve centers, which has the net effect of making more serotonin bioavailable for use by the brain and nervous system to regulate mood and energy levels. The drugs do have a varying impact depending on individual brain chemistry, making working with a professional on dosages and outcomes important for these medications to be good sources of serotonin.
Tryptophan-Rich Foods
Tryptophan is an amino acid that provides the foundational raw inputs for the body to make serotonin. MedlinePlus notes that tryptophan is not produced naturally by the body, so it must come from the diet or supplement sources. Tryptophan can be found in a number of dairy products, pumpkins, soy, nuts and poultry. It is most commonly known as the chemical in turkey that is linked to sleepiness after a Thanksgiving feast, but it is also critical for helping the body maintain appropriate levels of serotonin.
Foods High in B Vitamins
Members of the vitamin B family have been linked with providing the base sources for serotonin in the body. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, vitamin B6 is essential for helping the body appropriately synthesize the serotonin that the brain and nerve cells need to function. Individuals who are suffering from low serotonin levels may be helped by increasing their vitamin B intake, though the Office of Dietary Supplements notes that further research is needed to establish just how far vitamin B foods and supplements can go in terms of boosting serotonin levels.
