Serotonin: The Secret to Happiness and Much More

“There's nothing like deep breaths after laughing that hard. Nothing in the world like a sore stomach for the right reasons.” — Stephen Chbosky

“Folks are usually about as happy as they make their minds up to be.” — Abraham Lincoln.

The common factor here? Happiness. We’ve all experienced those moments: a hearty laugh with friends, a quiet evening with a good book, or simply a sunny day. But what exactly makes us happy? Philosophers and scientists alike have pondered this question for centuries. Where does happiness come from? Serotonin, a key player in our pursuit of joy, is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating our mood, sleep, and appetite.

Serotonin, also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), is both a neurotransmitter and a hormone. Often associated with mood regulation, serotonin plays a significant role in several bodily functions, such as sleep, digestion, nausea, wound healing, bone health, blood clotting, and sexual desire. 

People assume serotonin is only found in the brain, a common misconception. But, most of the serotonin in your body — about 90% — is produced in the gut, where it is released into the bloodstream. Only around 10% is generated in the brain. This 10%, though plays a vital role in carrying signals between nerve cells throughout your body, influencing mood, memory, learning, and several other processes such as appetite and body temperature. 

Serotonin is a multitasker, from mood regulation to blood clotting, it (almost) does it all. So what are some of the primary functions of serotonin? 

Since most of your body’s serotonin is produced in your gut, it makes sense that digestive health is aided by serotonin. It helps control bowel movements and functions. Serotonin regulates your appetite, letting you know when you’re full. If you’re overeating or inadvertently consuming something toxic, extra doses of serotonin are secreted, which moves the unwanted food along the digestive tract swiftly, expelling it from your body quicker. It also explains why increased serotonin levels can lead to nausea. 

Serotonin may help regulate your ability to stay awake, and while you are sleeping, serotonin is involved in switching between REM and non-REM sleep stages.

Also, with the help of dopamine (another neurotransmitter similar to serotonin), serotonin can influence your sleep quality — both how well and how long you sleep. Also, the brain relies on serotonin to produce melatonin, the hormone that keeps your sleep-wake cycle on track.

Serotonin levels may influence bone density, with research suggesting that high serotonin levels in the gut could be linked to lower bone density. This connection may increase the risk of weakened bones, fractures, and osteoporosis.

When tissue damage occurs, like a cut or wound, the platelets in your blood release serotonin locally to aid healing. This serotonin constricts the tiny blood vessels, called arterioles, thus slowing down the blood flow. This process, known as vasoconstriction, is essential for blood clotting and wound repair.

Mood regulation is one of serotonin’s most recognised functions, earning it the title of the body’s natural “feel-good” chemical. By helping regulate mood, serotonin contributes to feelings of happiness, calm, and focus. When levels are balanced, serotonin supports a sense of well-being and emotional stability. On the other hand, low serotonin levels have been linked to conditions like depression, underscoring its importance in mental health.

Serotonin plays a role in controlling sexual functions, influencing both the frequency and intensity of sexual desire. Its impact on libido is also connected to dopamine. For instance, studies have shown that increased serotonin activity, combined with reduced dopamine, can lead to lower sexual desire, as seen in conditions like hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD).

Serotonin levels can be elevated in two ways: naturally or with the help of medication. However, if you’re planning on using medication, it’s best to check with a healthcare professional to see if this is right for you. Too much serotonin can lead to side effects, so it’s smart to get guidance when considering ways to boost it. 

Here are some natural ways to up your serotonin levels:

1. Light Exposure: Bright sunlight is linked to improved mood. A SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) lamp can be used in winter or when sunlight is limited to help keep serotonin levels balanced.
2. Exercise: Regular physical activity, especially aerobic exercises, has proven benefits for serotonin production. As a bonus, exercise not only boosts your mood but also supports overall health and stress relief, making it an effective, natural way to support serotonin levels.
3. Balanced and healthy diet: Foods containing tryptophan, vitamin B6, vitamin D, and omega-3s — like bananas, leafy greens, eggs, nuts, and fatty fish — support serotonin production. A high-fibre diet of fruits and vegetables also helps maintain healthy gut bacteria, which is tied to serotonin levels since most serotonin is produced in the intestines.
4. Meditation: Meditating regularly can relieve stress and support a positive outlook, which may help balance serotonin in the body.
5. Massages: A massage is a great way to boost serotonin while lowering your cortisol (stress hormone) levels. Whether you opt for a professional or an at-home massage, it can elevate your mood and support and boost your serotonin levels.

Serotonin syndrome is a condition that arises when serotonin levels in the body become too high, often due to medications, supplements, or drugs that increase serotonin. It could happen for a multitude of reasons, but the most common ones are starting new medications, changing dosages on existing medications, or combining different substances that could affect serotonin levels. 

Serotonin syndrome symptoms can be varied as well. On the milder side of it, you could experience symptoms like shivering, heavy sweating, confusion, and muscle twitches. But, on a more serious note, some of the more grave symptoms of Serotonin Syndrome are high fever, seizures, fainting, or an irregular heartbeat. If these symptoms are not caught early and treated immediately, severe Serotonin Syndrome can be life-threatening.

It’s important to always consult with your doctor before taking any medications or supplements that can affect your serotonin levels. 

An incredibly versatile neurotransmitter, serotonin’s list of functions is nothing short of fascinating. But it is essential to understand that it is more than just a “feel-good hormone” or a “happy hormone”. Serotonin can impact several bodily functions. Using serotonin as a crutch to regulate happiness and your mood through medication and supplements is often dangerous. It poses risks not just to your mood but also to your digestive health, sexual health, and more. Always consult a healthcare provider before adjusting anything that could impact serotonin levels. 

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter and hormone that impacts mood, sleep, digestion, wound healing, and more. Often called the body's natural “feel-good” chemical, serotonin is mostly produced in the gut, with only about 10% made in the brain.

When serotonin is very high, it can cause serotonin syndrome, which happens when serotonin levels spike, often due to certain medications or supplements. Mild symptoms include shivering, sweating, and restlessness; more severe symptoms can include fever, seizures, and even loss of consciousness. If untreated, it can be dangerous, so always consult a doctor if you’re taking anything that can affect your serotonin levels.

Low serotonin is associated with mood issues like depression, anxiety, and trouble with memory or focus. You might also experience sleep disturbances, low energy, or changes in appetite. Consult your doctor if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms.

To naturally support serotonin, try regular exercise, exposure to sunlight, a balanced diet rich in tryptophan, and stress-relief practices like meditation.

There’s no standard test for serotonin levels in the brain. If you suspect an imbalance, talking to your doctor is the best first step — they can assess symptoms and recommend effective options.