Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, or 5-HT) is a monoamine neurotransmitter synthesized in serotonergic neurons in the central nervous system (CNS) and enterochromaffin cells in the gastrointestinal tract.
In the central nervous system, serotonin is believed to play an important role in the regulation of mood, sleep, emesis (vomiting), sexuality and appetite. Low levels of Serotonin have been associated with several disorders, notably depression, migraine, bipolar disorder and anxiety.
Carbohydrate-rich meals often increase serotonin levels. However, manipulating serotonin levels through food may be very difficult to achieve because serotonin's properties may have varying effects in different people. 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.
2006-10-25 16:07:55
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answer #1
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answered by sushi 2
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The brain,The bad news is non of the pills they say raise serotonin levels work.I have had depression since i was a child. nothing helps,I think it is genetic.
2006-10-25 06:57:00
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answer #2
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answered by gwhiz1052 7
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serotonin comes from your toenails. It is secreted by the end of your fingers and drips off the top of your nails at night.
2006-10-25 01:35:41
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answer #4
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answered by Anonymous
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