Serotonin Deficiency Syndrome

Posted May 11th, 2007 by admin

According to the World Health Organization, clinical depression is the leading cause of disability in North America, and by 2020 is expected to be the second most debilitating disease in the world.

One of the reasons for the increase in clinical depression is now known to be a disorder called Serotonin Deficiency Disorder. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is believed to be responsible for diverse functions, including regulating mood, aggression, body temperature, sleep, and appetite. Depleted levels of serotonin may cause a host of problems, including depression, anxiety, insomnia, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, compulsive disorders, and cravings for high-glycemic foods.

Serotonin is an organic compound formed from tryptophan, so in order to ensure that the body manufactures sufficient levels of serotonin, adequate levels of the amino acid tryptophan must be included in the diet. People with depressive symptoms may be deficient in tryptophan, thus exacerbating symptoms of Serotonin Deficiency Syndrome. Tryptophan is easily degraded in individuals deficient in B vitamins, as well as in individuals under high levels of stress.

Some ways to ensure that adequate serotonin is produced, is to consume high-quality protein, reduce stress, supplement with B vitamins, exercise regularly, and make sure to get sufficient sleep. Some foods that contain tryptophan include meats such as turkey, as well as cottage cheese, and brown rice. The serotonin precursor, 5-HTP, is also available ion supplement form. As well, it is a good idea to avoid foods that have a high-glycemic index such as white potatoes, white rice, and candy. High-glycemic foods cause a rapid rise in blood sugar that the body then stores as fat since they cannot be converted to energy quickly. Even though you may feel better temporarily, the resulting energy crash will affect your mood.