Anxiety, irritability, bad mood and insomnia. These are just some of the inconveniences that affect our routine, even the people around us, and can even trigger diseases such as depression. All this may be a sign that the body lacks serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for the sensation of well-being and pleasure.
Although it is produced in our brain, almost all serotonin is sent to the rest of the body, especially to two extremely important regions: the digestive system and blood platelets.
When its production is too low, various psychological and bodily functions can be affected and the good mood can disappear.
How to ensure a good mood naturally
The best way to ensure a good mood is to increase the production of this important neurotransmitter. Contributing to it is much easier and more natural than it seems. Here we tell you how:
Add good carbohydrates to your diet
Do you realize that people with a disturbed mood tend to consume more sweets? That’s because serotonin levels are low. That is why it is valuable to eat good quality carbohydrates, which are sources of tryptophan, a mood-relevant amino acid.
In the brain, this macronutrient helps boost the body’s production of serotonin.
meditate
Studies show that people who meditate produce more serotonin and, conversely, the body inhibits the production of cortisol, which is the stress hormone. Therefore, this habit is also an antidepressant and an ally for those who suffer from anxiety and stress.
practice exercises
It is a general consensus that the practice of physical activities increases disposition and acts as a natural antidepressant. This is one of the healthiest ways to increase serotonin production, in addition to protecting our cardiovascular system, among many other benefits.
take some time off
In a world that brings more and more commitments and stressful situations, it is essential to spend time doing activities that give you pleasure. Take time for family, travel, read a book, travel and do whatever contributes to a good quality of life. Always try to keep positive thinking. And it is that a healthy mind is always related to a healthy body.
sunbathe
Vitamin D is an important nutrient for the production of serotonin and is synthesized in the body with sunlight. There are even people who suffer from a kind of seasonal depression that accommodates them in the colder months.
But use moderation when exposing yourself to the sun: always do it before 10 in the morning and after 4 or 5 in the afternoon.
Listen to music that inspires you
Listening to songs that we really like is another activity that inhibits the production of cortisol. It is worth dancing to that music that brings joy and good energy. If the idea is to calm the body and mind, slower songs help to relax and act as a calming agent, even for those who suffer from insomnia.
Consume vitamin B
The B complex vitamins, especially B6 and B12, combine in the production of serotonin. They are especially valuable nutrients for the elderly and an addition is often indicated.
invest in magnesium
Magnesium is another important nutrient for balancing serotonin production and still helps regulate nerve function. Some food sources of this nutrient are: fish, bananas, dark green leaves and beans.