Serotonin is a type of neurotransmitter and hormone that has positive effects on regulating mood, state of well-being and happiness. If the brain make too little serotonin, depression can result. In these cases, patients will be given a SSRI (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor) such as Zoloft, Lexapro, and Prozac among other SSRI’s which increases the levels of serotonin in the brain. However these SSRI have side effects such as:
- Loss of appetite
- Insomnia
- Lower sex drive
- Difficulty having an orgasm
- In men, difficulty maintaining or having an erection.
Fortunately, there are ways to increase serotonin in the human brain without drugs. These include:
- Bright light therapy: This is the standard treatment for SAD (Seasonal Affect Disorder) but it can be effective for nonseasonal depression.
- Exercise: Engaging in exercise increases blood flow to the brain and helps to regulate levels of serotonin in the brain among other neurotransmitters.
- Dietary Supplements: Taking tryptophan or 5 HTP (hydroxytryptophan) can directly increase serotonin levels in the brain.