Serotonin

Question
Hi,
I have read numerous articles regarding serotonin and it effect on the body. Some articles say that serotonin will increase cognition and give you energy but others say that serotonin will make you drowsy and unresponsive. What do you think? Thanks.

Answer
Hello Lauren!

  Thank you for your nutrition question.  Serotonin is one chemical that has received a great deal of attention for its contribution to mood. It's a neurotransmitter (a chemical involved in the transmission of nerve impulses between nerve cells. In the brain, serotonin's main effects include improving mood and giving you that "satisfied" feeling from food. It's also thought to help promote sleep and relaxation.
  Carbohydrate-rich meals often increase serotonin levels.  Some people may experience a temporary lift in mood after a carbohydrate-rich meal, while others may become relaxed or sleepy. Certain foods that increase serotonin levels aren't the healthiest choices either. Believe it or not, candy and sweets, which are simple carbohydrates, have the greatest impact, but the effect will only last 1 - 2 hours. Complex carbohydrates (rice, potato, pasta) may increase serotonin levels, but not to the same extent because the protein content of these foods might actually inhibit serotonin production.  Hope this sheds some light on the subject.

-George

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