Tips To Increase Serotonin, The Hormone That Gives Pleasure And Happiness

For a feeling of well-being, it is necessary to have adequate levels of certain hormones, such as serotonin, which is related to good self-esteem if properly stimulated.

‘The human brain can produce four hormones related to happiness, well-being, pleasure, relaxation and relief from physical and emotional pain,’ explained Susana Soto, an endocrinologist, in an interview with Prensa Libre, referring to oxytocin, endorphin, dopamine, and serotonin.

When these hormones are stimulated, our self-esteem and productivity in the activities we normally perform improve, thanks to the signals sent to the brain, which gives us energy and a good mood, although it is important to remember that these substances work differently depending on the age and sex of the person.

The hormone of well-being

This is how serotonin is known, one of the substances of the happiness quartet for our organism. Among its main functions there is relaxation, satisfaction in the form of reward, increased concentration, and self-esteem. Therefore, a person with adequate levels of serotonin will feel in optimal conditions to face their routine without major difficulties and with the best attitude.

However, having low levels of this hormone will cause a person to experience anxiety, panic attacks, anger, and depression, which are usually warning signs. It is also important to note that this hormone is present in blood platelets, and low levels of this hormone result in irritability and negative feelings such as worry and sadness, among others.

Therefore, it is necessary to stimulate I,t and, in addition to making us feel good, it also participates in the proper functioning of sleep, especially in the REM phase, which is where memories are stored through dreams and mood is regulated, according to the National Institutes of Health.

Serotonin stimulation

Feeding

According to an article published by the Centro de Formación Profesional a Distancia (CEAC) in Spain, foods rich in tryptophan (an essential amino acid for the diet) could be related to the feeling of well-being. This is found in foods such as eggs, dairy products, chicken, legumes, and turkey, among others.

Positive mindset

Having a positive mindset towards different situations in life will allow you to increase serotonin levels, as well as share time with your loved ones.

Reduce stress

Remember that this hormone of happiness and well-being is related to relaxation, so it is advisable to do relaxing and leisure activities, as well as exercise, to release the tensions that your routine generates.

Spend time reading and doing activities that distract you; if possible, set aside a few minutes for stretching and breathing exercises.

Do not abuse drugs

To regulate happiness hormones, some people take antidepressants that allow them to feel better, but it is recommended that this be under specific medical treatment since, by exceeding serotonin levels, the patient could be exposed to serotonin syndrome, which involves autonomic, neuromuscular, and neurological dysfunction, according to Psychology and Mind.