More and more people suffer from stress-related complaints, various studies have shown. That in itself is not very strange. The world seems to be turning faster and faster and let's face that rat race. But what if we told you that you literally carry the key to happiness within you? In this blog, Rémon Koetje, Lifestyle coach and trainer at Happy Bodies, explains how the happiness hormone serotonin influences your mental well-being and how you can increase your serotonin level.
What exactly is serotonin?
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter – a kind of messenger – that plays a major role in various bodily functions. Consider the regulation of your mood, sleep, appetite, digestion and even your libido. More than 90 percent of your serotonin is produced in your gastrointestinal tract and it helps determine how you feel every day.
How serotonin affects your mood
An optimal level of serotonin in your body makes you feel calmer, happier and more emotionally stable. Low levels are often associated with depression, anxiety and other mood disorders. Of course, serotonin isn't a magic wand for instant happiness, but maintaining healthy serotonin levels can certainly help boost your mental health.
Natural ways to boost your serotonin
Of course you can opt for supplements that are converted into serotonin in the brain, but nothing beats natural ways to boost your serotonin levels. Exercise is such a great serotonin booster. Regular physical activity, especially aerobic exercises such as walking, running and cycling, but also strength training, stimulate your brain to produce more of this happiness hormone. Even daily walks can make a big difference in how you feel.
The influence of nutrition on your serotonin levels
What you eat can also affect your serotonin levels. Foods high in tryptophan, an essential amino acid, are great for boosting serotonin production. Consider foods such as salmon, chicken, eggs, spinach and seeds. Also make sure you have one balanced intake of carbohydrates and proteins, as this helps with the absorption of tryptophan in your brain.
Provide sufficient sunlight
Serotonin increases with the amount of daylight exposure. That is why many people feel more depressed during the winter months. Try some time every day outside even when it's cloudy, to increase your natural serotonin levels and improve your mood.
In brief
While increasing your serotonin levels won't solve all problems, it can certainly help improve your overall well-being. By focusing on a healthy lifestyle, good nutrition and regular exercise, you can live a more stable, happier life.
Knowing more?
Would you like to get started with a training routine that is efficient and effective? Curious about how you too can get more energy by training twice for 35 minutes every ten days, under the guidance of your own personal lifestyle coach? Even if you have physical complaints? Then do the membership test and sign up for a free personal introductory meeting and tour of the club. Want to bet that you are immediately sold?
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