Depression Caused By A Lack Of Serotonin – How To Avoid?

If you want to maintain a constant level of serotonin, reach for products that stimulate its secretion. Combine your diet with physical activity as well.

Serotonin is a chemical produced in the body. Its main task is to transmit signals between nerve connections, so it can be called a neurotransmitter. It is formed on the basis of tryptophan and plays a key role in disorders such as depression.

According to experts, the main task of serotonin is to maintain a balance in the well-being and emotional state of each person. Lack of this substance can cause depression. Serotonin is also believed to affect smooth muscle contractility, the transmission of nerve impulses, and the regulation of the body’s circadian rhythm.

Most serotonin is produced in the digestive system, but it is also found in platelets, the brain and the central nervous system.

Serotonin has a profound effect on a myriad of physical and emotional functions. When its level drops significantly, mood deteriorates, irritability, stress and even depression appear.

The last of these symptoms is especially dangerous because it can significantly reduce the quality of life and even turn into a chronic disease.

Depression caused by a decrease in serotonin – symptoms

The lack of this important neurotransmitter has serious consequences and has negative repercussions on physical and mental health.

Symptoms to watch out for when you develop depression include:

persistent negative feelings
feeling anxious and anxious,
obsessive behavior or roughness
lack of patience, quick irritation,
feeling of deep sadness and unhappiness

low self-esteem and lack of trust,
fear,
difficulty falling asleep.

Low Serotonin Levels – What Causes?

A lack of vitamin and essential minerals can also be the cause of low serotonin levels. The abuse of alcohol, caffeine and artificial sweeteners is also important.

In addition, constant stress, anxiety, and other such emotions prevent the brain from properly coordinating the secretion of this important neurotransmitter.

Serotonin needs sunlight, so depression caused by low levels occurs primarily in the winter months.

Eat these foods and fight depression

You can fight depression by stimulating the production of serotonin in the body. You can do this by adding certain foods to your diet that will help you not only feel better but also be healthy.

Sea fish

Protein and healthy fatty acids in marine fish stimulate the secretion of serotonin and reduce inflammation that blocks its action.

It is especially recommended to eat fish such as:

mackerel
salmon
tuna
sardine
anchovies

Meat

Moderate consumption of meat provides the body with high amounts of protein and carbohydrates, which in turn facilitates the absorption of tryptophan. A rich source of this amino acid is primarily chicken, turkey and pork.

Eggs

Eggs, and especially their yolk, are an extremely rich source of tryptophan and minerals necessary to maintain well-being.

Dairy

Milk and dairy products have a huge impact on well-being because they reduce the level of cortisol that is linked to stress.

Dairy is an important source of essential fatty acids, including tryptophan.

Try to reach for as often as possible:

Cheddar
cottage cheese
Greek yoghurt
milk
kefir

Vegetables

Vegetables are also a great choice as they can improve your well-being and reduce depression. What’s more, they are a source of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals that increase serotonin levels in the brain.

Delicacies

nuts and dried fruits and their impact on depression

A handful of nuts and dried fruits are enough to reduce the level of stress, depression and fatigue. Dried fruits contain essential fatty acids that give the body energy and improve physical endurance and mental performance.

In addition, nuts and dried fruits are a valuable source of magnesium, which helps you relax, reduce the effects of stress and fight sleep problems.

Chocolate

Chocolate is an excellent product to help fight depression and other emotional problems. If it contains 60% cocoa or more, it has a lot of tryptophan. Therefore, it is best to reach for dark chocolate.

Chocolate is also a valuable source of antioxidants, i.e. molecules that eliminate the effects of free radicals.

In conclusion, although depression is influenced by many factors, having the right level of serotonin can help us a lot to overcome this ailment. We can achieve this through a properly balanced diet and habits such as meditation and exercise.