Tips to Increase Serotonin - The Happy Hormones

More than 90% of your serotonin stays in your intestines where it helps to regulate your digestive system. It still has so much impact on your mood that it’s part of the formula for many antidepressant medications.

Try out these activities to help increase serotonin:

#1 - Exercise regularly.

Physical movement is one of the simplest and most effective ways to stimulate serotonin. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise each week. Play sports, take fitness classes or go for a walk.

#2 - Eat carbohydrates.

You may crave certain comfort foods because calories from carbohydrates trigger serotonin. Choose complex carbohydrates like whole grains rather than refined products like cake and cookies.

#3 - Take B vitamins.

Both dopamine and serotonin respond to B vitamins. Smart sources include brown rice, legumes, and leafy green vegetables.

Other Happy Hormones

Besides dopamine and serotonin, there are several other hormones that can help you to feel happy, including estrogen, progesterone, endorphins, and oxytocin. Try these techniques to maintain healthy levels of these hormones and feel happier:

#1 - Treat menopause symptoms.

Menopause and perimenopause cause major hormonal changes, including a drop in estrogen. Talk with your doctor about what options are appropriate for you. You may be able to manage your symptoms naturally or you may want to consider hormone replacement therapy.

#2 - Manage stress.

At any stage in life, stress hormones can interfere with any of the happy hormones. Keep tension under control with meditation, deep breathing, and other relaxation practices.

#3 - Be kind.

Oxytocin earns its nickname as the love hormone. It’s involved in social bonding as well as birth. Research shows that it contributes to life satisfaction, so help it along by being generous and affectionate.

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Most of the habits that boost your happy hormones also support your overall wellbeing. Stay cheerful and healthy. Eat a balanced diet, exercise regularly, manage stress, and talk with your doctor if you notice any symptoms that interfere with your daily life.