What is serotonin and how does it work in our body?

A neurotransmitter that works in the brain, establishing communication between nerve cells and can also be found in the digestive system and blood platelets. This is serotonin, popularly known as the happiness hormone.

It is able to regulate mood, sleep, appetite, heart rate, body temperature, sensitivity and cognitive functions and, therefore, when it is in a low concentration, it can cause bad mood, difficulty sleeping, anxiety or even depression.

Practicing physical exercises regularly can increase the level of serotonin in your bodies, learn all about how this hormone acts in the body and its benefits. Good reading!

What is serotonin?

It makes communication between nerve cells. As it is a neurotransmitter, it works as a “messenger” for the nervous system. If the levels are right, you are happy, in a good mood, sleeping well, eating right and, even more, with your fundamental cognitive functions up to date.

Serotonin is produced in two places in our body: the gut and the brain. However, 95% of serotonin is produced in the gut via the enteric nervous system, and only 5% is produced in the brain.

How does it work in your body?

It regulates all behavior, attention, memory, mood, appetite and energy expenditure, know its main functions:

  • Regulates mood: acts on the brain by regulating anxiety, increasing happiness and improving mood;
  • Regulates sleep: it stimulates the regions in the brain that control sleep and awakening, that is, you sleep better;
  • Acts on bowel movements: serotonin is in large amounts in the stomach and intestine, helping to control bowel function and movements;
  • Blood clotting: blood platelets release serotonin to help wounds heal.
  • Bone health: plays a key role in bone health;
  • Sexual function: it is a substance related to libido!

Practicing physical activities is a way to increase serotonin, stimulating the serotonergic system, related to mood and well-being. It has been scientifically proven that people who do physical exercises have greater production of the hormone than other people.

So, do you want to be happier and have a healthier life? Come to Sun Yoga!

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