Low mood, worry and anxiety are a lot more common than you might think. This can be due to any number of nutritional or biochemical deficiencies, or from a disruption to your energy field. A common cause of anxiety is low serotonin production. Lets explore what that looks like...
The hormone serotonin is known as the 'happy hormone'. Serotonin helps us to feel good and have positive affect and also allows us to feel grounded, deal with impulse control and helps with pain regulation.
How do you know if your serotonin is low?
Answer the questions below, and find out.
Do you frequently feel anxious or worried?
Do you have sleep disorders or insomnia?
Are you often moody or irritable?
Do you experience OCD like symptoms?
Do you crave carbohydrates, such as salty chips?
Do you lack confidence, or are you self critical?
Are you impulsive or do you easily become addicted to sugar, alcohol, social media?
Do you suspect you have irritable bowel syndrome?
Do you have unexplained aches and pains?
If you have answered yes to some of these questions, it is worth mentioning to your naturopath and wellbeing coach.
Could there be other culprits?
Remember that there are many neurotransmitters that affect our overall wellbeing, including dopamine and endorphins. eg where dopamine is low, we can also experience low motivation, slow reaction, low energy. And, where we are not producing endorphins we can experience unexplained chronic pain. Sometimes there are multiple deficiencies and we can experience a variety and combination of some of these symptoms. It is always best to check with your naturopath if you suspect you have a neurotransmitter problem.
Serotonin is also a precursor to melatonin (which has important roles in promoting antioxidant support and in achieving quality sleep). Low serotonin can impact many areas of enjoyment of your life, sleep and overall wellbeing. In addition, low serotonin can contribute to other health issues including mood, migraine, asthma, gut problems.
If you have answered yes to some of these questions, it is worth mentioning to your naturopath.
