Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsSymptomsSerotonin FunctionCausesDiagnosisHow to Increase Levels
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Symptoms
Serotonin Function
Causes
Diagnosis
How to Increase Levels
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger that helps with regulating mood.When your body doesn’t produce enough serotonin or its receptors don’t work well, the resultingserotonindeficiency can impact your physical and emotional health. Low serotonin symptoms may include:DepressionAnxietyIrritabilityFatigueMemory problemsChanges in sleep patternsChronic painChanges in appetiteLoss of interest in sexDigestive issues (e.g., irritable bowel syndrome)demaerre / Getty ImagesWhat Are the Symptoms of Serotonin Deficiency?Low serotonin levels can lead to both physical and emotional changes. The low serotonin may be due to the amount of serotonin produced, or the proper function and availability of serotonin receptors to use it in the body. Other causes may include the effects of nutrients like vitamin D.Whatever the reason, serotonin deficiency can cause people to experience a range of symptoms.Emotional SymptomsEmotional symptoms associated with low serotonin include:Social withdrawalSadness and frequent crying spellsLow self-esteem and self-confidenceChanges in personalityFeeling emotionally sensitive and taking things personallyIrritabilityPhobiasObsessive-compulsive thoughtsThere is some evidence that low-serotonin levels may be a risk factor for impulsive aggression (hostile action). Anger as a feeling may be one as well, but further research is needed.Talk to your healthcare provider about any of these symptoms of low serotonin.The presence of emotional symptoms does not confirm a mental health issue. However, serotonin is involved in certain mental illnesses, such asmajor depressive disorder.Low serotonin also has been noted in people withobsessive-compulsive disorder(OCD), but research has yet to confirm a causal connection.Physical SymptomsSome of the physical symptoms linked to low serotonin include:Chronic fatigue even though you get adequate restDisturbed sleepLoss of appetite or carb cravings (possibly from the body’s attempt to make more serotonin)Hot flashes and temperature changes that are not linked to your environmentHeadachesStomach painsCertainly, some of these symptoms can crop up in anyone’s life from time to time. The key is to recognize whether you have clusters of symptoms that tend to occur together.Serotonin levels can fluctuate, leading to symptom flares and remissions (times when symptoms are gone or at low levels).Low Serotonin and DizzinessDeclining serotonin levels can cause dizziness. This may be because the vestibular system, which preserves a sense of balance, has many serotonin receptors—structures that allow messages from serotonin to be received. Dizziness also is a common side effect ofSSRI drugs.Related Health ConditionsCertain health conditions are associated with low serotonin levels. They include:Alzheimer’s diseaseParkinson’s diseaseSchizophreniaDepressionPost-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)Much of the research on serotonin is done in animals, with results that suggest serotonin may play a role in other conditions and functions including sleep, breathing, and more.Serotonin and CancerSome studies suggest that serotonin levels can affect the growth of tumors in lung cancer,melanoma, andcolorectal cancer. It also appears to act on the immune system. Researchers are exploring how selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) might be used to treat cancers.What Does Serotonin Do for the Body?Serotonin is a regulator of many processes in the body. When serotonin levels are out of balance, so are the processes and functions to which they contribute.Serotonin’s dual nature as a neurotransmitter and hormone means that it’s found throughout your body. Perhaps surprisingly, there’s more serotonin in your gut than in your brain. The effects of low serotonin are many and seemingly unrelated symptoms may, in fact, be related to it.Takefibromyalgia(FMS) andchronic fatigue syndrome(CFS orME/CFS), for example. Both may be linked to serotonin deficiency.Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)also involves serotonin dysregulation and is extremely common in those with either of these conditions.Learning to spot the signs of low serotonin can help you get a diagnosis and treatment.Serotonin Deficiency and Long COVIDNew research on COVID-19 infection suggests that low serotonin levels may play a role inlong COVIDcases.The study suggests that medications used to treat people with low serotonin levels may show promise in offering benefits to those living with long COVID.What Causes Serotonin Deficiency?Low serotonin levels may have a number of causes, many of which are still under study. Tryptophan levels play a role, because your body cannot produce serotonin without this amino acid.So do omega-3 fatty acids. Animal studies suggest vitamin B6 may also play a role in some cases.Other research points to the role of genetics or environmental factors that can lead to disruptions in serotonin levels.A number of factors can deplete serotonin levels. Low serotonin can happen because your body does not make enough or it does not use it efficiently. There are likely several factors that cause or contribute to this. These may include genetics, stress, chronic pain, and nutritional deficiencies.How Do I Know if My Serotonin Levels Are Low?Measuring neurotransmitters is not a reliable way todetermine if you’re lacking serotonin. Instead, healthcare providers rely on a review of your symptoms to make a diagnosis.If you have physical and emotional symptoms that you think could be from low serotonin, it’s important to reach out to your primary care provider or a mental health provider for an evaluation.Getting HelpIf you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat1-800-273-8255for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911 without delay.How Is Serotonin Deficiency Treated?There are many ways to fix a serotonin deficiency. Some people find that a combination of strategies works best for raising their serotonin levels and keeping them in a range that supports their physical and mental health.For example, managing stress levels and seeking support from friends can work alongside of medication used to treat depression. Here are some of thestrategies for treating serotonin deficiency.Antidepressant MedicationAntidepressant medications like SSRIs,SNRIs,MAOIs, andtricyclicscan treat low serotonin. Your provider may prescribe one to you. Know, however, that these drugs can take some time to work.Common SSRIs include:Celexa (citalopram)Lexapro (escitalopram)Paxil, Paxil CR, Pexeva (paroxetine)Prozac (fluoxetine)Zoloft (sertraline)Nutritious DietEating a nutritious diet can help with serotonin deficiency. It includes foods like nuts and legumes, animal protein, fish, and whole grains.You also can ask your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of boosting your diet withherbs and supplementslikeashwagandha. Some studies suggest ashwagandha root extract may positively influence serotonin levels.Herbs and SupplementsMore study is needed to confirm the benefits of using herbs and supplements to improve your serotonin levels. However, there is some evidence of benefit with the following:Curcumin, a polyphenol compound in turmericFolic acid(synthetic vitamin B9) taken as a supplementNaringenin, aflavonoidfound in citrus fruitsResveratrol, a polyphenol antioxidant found in grapes, berries, apples, and some nutsSafranal, found in the spicesaffron5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), made from the seeds of a plant,Griffonia simplicifoliaSt. John’s wortalso may be used, and for some people it may work as well as SSRI medication.But the two should not be taken together, and St. John’s wort can pose a risk (especially with drug interaction) to those treated for other health conditions.Before trying any supplements, talk to your provider—especially if you’re taking prescription medications like antidepressants.Bright LightIt may help to get plenty of fresh air and sunlight during the day. Research shows that getting an adequate amount of sunlight can boost serotonin levels.Some studies also find benefits when using a lightbox or another bright light source.However, keep in mind that too much exposure to light at night, including light from electronic devices, can disrupt your body’snatural sleep cycle.ExerciseThere’s some evidence to suggest that moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise sessions (ranging from 30 minutes to one hour) can raise serotonin levels. However, the effects appear temporary and more research is needed to understand the role of exercise.That said, exercise offers overall benefits (not just in boosting serotonin) that can help with both your physical and mental health, so stay physically active in a way that you enjoy.The Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week.Stress ManagementSerotonin is considered a stress-related neurotransmitter.Changes in serotonin levels are linked to anxiety and other physical and mental health disorders. Techniques tomanage stressinclude:Breathing techniquesMindfulnessand meditationPracticing yogaArt and music therapy may offer benefits too. One study of music therapy in children and teens diagnosed withattention-deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD) found increased serotonin levels with the music therapy sessions.SummarySerotonin is an important brain chemical that also works like a hormone. If you don’t have enough serotonin, you can have physical and emotional symptoms that can be disruptive to your daily life.Conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia might be related to serotonin deficiency. Researchers are studying a host of medical conditions in which serotonin may play a role.If you think you might have low levels of serotonin, talk to your healthcare provider. There are different ways to raise your levels and keep them up so you can feel and function at your best.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, a chemical messenger that helps with regulating mood.When your body doesn’t produce enough serotonin or its receptors don’t work well, the resultingserotonindeficiency can impact your physical and emotional health. Low serotonin symptoms may include:
demaerre / Getty Images
What Are the Symptoms of Serotonin Deficiency?
Low serotonin levels can lead to both physical and emotional changes. The low serotonin may be due to the amount of serotonin produced, or the proper function and availability of serotonin receptors to use it in the body. Other causes may include the effects of nutrients like vitamin D.
Whatever the reason, serotonin deficiency can cause people to experience a range of symptoms.
Emotional Symptoms
Emotional symptoms associated with low serotonin include:
There is some evidence that low-serotonin levels may be a risk factor for impulsive aggression (hostile action). Anger as a feeling may be one as well, but further research is needed.
Talk to your healthcare provider about any of these symptoms of low serotonin.
The presence of emotional symptoms does not confirm a mental health issue. However, serotonin is involved in certain mental illnesses, such asmajor depressive disorder.Low serotonin also has been noted in people withobsessive-compulsive disorder(OCD), but research has yet to confirm a causal connection.
Physical Symptoms
Some of the physical symptoms linked to low serotonin include:
Certainly, some of these symptoms can crop up in anyone’s life from time to time. The key is to recognize whether you have clusters of symptoms that tend to occur together.
Serotonin levels can fluctuate, leading to symptom flares and remissions (times when symptoms are gone or at low levels).
Low Serotonin and DizzinessDeclining serotonin levels can cause dizziness. This may be because the vestibular system, which preserves a sense of balance, has many serotonin receptors—structures that allow messages from serotonin to be received. Dizziness also is a common side effect ofSSRI drugs.
Low Serotonin and Dizziness
Declining serotonin levels can cause dizziness. This may be because the vestibular system, which preserves a sense of balance, has many serotonin receptors—structures that allow messages from serotonin to be received. Dizziness also is a common side effect ofSSRI drugs.
Related Health Conditions
Certain health conditions are associated with low serotonin levels. They include:
Much of the research on serotonin is done in animals, with results that suggest serotonin may play a role in other conditions and functions including sleep, breathing, and more.
Serotonin and CancerSome studies suggest that serotonin levels can affect the growth of tumors in lung cancer,melanoma, andcolorectal cancer. It also appears to act on the immune system. Researchers are exploring how selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) might be used to treat cancers.
Serotonin and Cancer
Some studies suggest that serotonin levels can affect the growth of tumors in lung cancer,melanoma, andcolorectal cancer. It also appears to act on the immune system. Researchers are exploring how selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) might be used to treat cancers.
What Does Serotonin Do for the Body?
Serotonin is a regulator of many processes in the body. When serotonin levels are out of balance, so are the processes and functions to which they contribute.
Serotonin’s dual nature as a neurotransmitter and hormone means that it’s found throughout your body. Perhaps surprisingly, there’s more serotonin in your gut than in your brain. The effects of low serotonin are many and seemingly unrelated symptoms may, in fact, be related to it.
Takefibromyalgia(FMS) andchronic fatigue syndrome(CFS orME/CFS), for example. Both may be linked to serotonin deficiency.Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)also involves serotonin dysregulation and is extremely common in those with either of these conditions.
Learning to spot the signs of low serotonin can help you get a diagnosis and treatment.
Serotonin Deficiency and Long COVIDNew research on COVID-19 infection suggests that low serotonin levels may play a role inlong COVIDcases.The study suggests that medications used to treat people with low serotonin levels may show promise in offering benefits to those living with long COVID.
Serotonin Deficiency and Long COVID
New research on COVID-19 infection suggests that low serotonin levels may play a role inlong COVIDcases.The study suggests that medications used to treat people with low serotonin levels may show promise in offering benefits to those living with long COVID.
What Causes Serotonin Deficiency?
Low serotonin levels may have a number of causes, many of which are still under study. Tryptophan levels play a role, because your body cannot produce serotonin without this amino acid.So do omega-3 fatty acids. Animal studies suggest vitamin B6 may also play a role in some cases.
Other research points to the role of genetics or environmental factors that can lead to disruptions in serotonin levels.
A number of factors can deplete serotonin levels. Low serotonin can happen because your body does not make enough or it does not use it efficiently. There are likely several factors that cause or contribute to this. These may include genetics, stress, chronic pain, and nutritional deficiencies.
How Do I Know if My Serotonin Levels Are Low?
Measuring neurotransmitters is not a reliable way todetermine if you’re lacking serotonin. Instead, healthcare providers rely on a review of your symptoms to make a diagnosis.
If you have physical and emotional symptoms that you think could be from low serotonin, it’s important to reach out to your primary care provider or a mental health provider for an evaluation.
Getting HelpIf you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat1-800-273-8255for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911 without delay.
Getting Help
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat1-800-273-8255for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911 without delay.
How Is Serotonin Deficiency Treated?
There are many ways to fix a serotonin deficiency. Some people find that a combination of strategies works best for raising their serotonin levels and keeping them in a range that supports their physical and mental health.
For example, managing stress levels and seeking support from friends can work alongside of medication used to treat depression. Here are some of thestrategies for treating serotonin deficiency.
Antidepressant Medication
Antidepressant medications like SSRIs,SNRIs,MAOIs, andtricyclicscan treat low serotonin. Your provider may prescribe one to you. Know, however, that these drugs can take some time to work.
Common SSRIs include:
Nutritious Diet
Eating a nutritious diet can help with serotonin deficiency. It includes foods like nuts and legumes, animal protein, fish, and whole grains.
You also can ask your healthcare provider about the benefits and risks of boosting your diet withherbs and supplementslikeashwagandha. Some studies suggest ashwagandha root extract may positively influence serotonin levels.
Herbs and Supplements
More study is needed to confirm the benefits of using herbs and supplements to improve your serotonin levels. However, there is some evidence of benefit with the following:
St. John’s wortalso may be used, and for some people it may work as well as SSRI medication.But the two should not be taken together, and St. John’s wort can pose a risk (especially with drug interaction) to those treated for other health conditions.
Before trying any supplements, talk to your provider—especially if you’re taking prescription medications like antidepressants.
Bright Light
It may help to get plenty of fresh air and sunlight during the day. Research shows that getting an adequate amount of sunlight can boost serotonin levels.Some studies also find benefits when using a lightbox or another bright light source.
However, keep in mind that too much exposure to light at night, including light from electronic devices, can disrupt your body’snatural sleep cycle.
Exercise
There’s some evidence to suggest that moderate- and vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise sessions (ranging from 30 minutes to one hour) can raise serotonin levels. However, the effects appear temporary and more research is needed to understand the role of exercise.
That said, exercise offers overall benefits (not just in boosting serotonin) that can help with both your physical and mental health, so stay physically active in a way that you enjoy.
The Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week.
Stress Management
Serotonin is considered a stress-related neurotransmitter.Changes in serotonin levels are linked to anxiety and other physical and mental health disorders. Techniques tomanage stressinclude:
Art and music therapy may offer benefits too. One study of music therapy in children and teens diagnosed withattention-deficit hyperactivity disorder(ADHD) found increased serotonin levels with the music therapy sessions.
Summary
Serotonin is an important brain chemical that also works like a hormone. If you don’t have enough serotonin, you can have physical and emotional symptoms that can be disruptive to your daily life.
Conditions like chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and fibromyalgia might be related to serotonin deficiency. Researchers are studying a host of medical conditions in which serotonin may play a role.
If you think you might have low levels of serotonin, talk to your healthcare provider. There are different ways to raise your levels and keep them up so you can feel and function at your best.
37 Sources
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