Serotonin
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which carries signals between nerve cells in the brain. It is also a hormone and is found all over the body and is produced in the digestive system.
It is often referred to as the happy hormone because of its influence on mood. But it also has effect on our emotions, memory, sleep, appetite, digestion, pain perception, body temperature regulation and libido.
According to the NHS research has found people with Fibromyalgia have abnormally low levels of serotonin in their brains.
Symptoms of Low Levels of Serotonin
Anxiety
Binge eating
Chronic pain
Craving carbs
Depression
Digestive problems
Fatigue
IBS
Irritability
Low energy
Low libido
Low self esteem
Memory problems
Negative thoughts
Sleep problems
Weight gain
It is not surprising that all the symptoms of low levels of serotonin overlap Fibromyalgia symptoms.
Stress is a big factor in worsening the symptoms of Fibromyalgia and high levels of the stress hormone cortisol deplete serotonin.
So how can you increase your serotonin levels? You can do this chemically by taking antidepressant or by natural methods.
Antidepressants named Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are thought to work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. There are however many side effects to consider.
Antidepressant SSRIs Side Effects
Agitation
Blurred vision
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Drowsiness
Dry mouth
Headache
Insomnia
Nausea
Nervousness
Restlessness
Sexual dysfunction
Weight gain
Weight loss
Types of Antidepressant SSRIs
Citalopram (Cipramil)
Dapoxetine (Priligy)
Escitalopram (Cipralex)
Fluoxetine (Prozac or Oxactin)
Fluvoxamine (Faverin)
Paroxetine (Seroxat)
Sertraline (Lustral)
Vortioxetine (Brintellix)
Natural Ways to Increase Serotonin
SAD Light Lamp
It is thought that using a SAD Light Lamp can increase serotonin. Similarly exposure to early morning daylight is thought to do the same. I’ve written in more details about using a SAD Light Lamp
St. John’s Wort
St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) is an herb that is used for treating mild to moderate depression. It seems to work in a similar way to SSRIs. Research has suggested that St. John’s Wort increases the activity of brain chemicals such as serotonin. I’ve written in more details about St. John’s Wort
Diet
Having a diet rich in foods that contain tryptophan (an essential amino acid) can assist the body to produce more serotonin.
Foods, including salmon, eggs, spinach, and seeds are among those that help boost serotonin naturally. Foods such as eggs, milk, nuts, poultry, salmon, seeds and tofu contain high levels of tryptophan.
Exercise
Regular exercise can boost your mood by stimulating the release of serotonin. Even gentle exercise can help you feel better.
Positivity
Having a positive outlook can be difficult for Fibromyalgia sufferers but allowing yourself to be surrounded with only positive people will help your mood. Try to avoid negative people who make you feel sad or unhappy. Also try to avoid watching or reading about sad events.