Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for a variety of functions in both the brain and body. Although commonly associated with brain function, 95% of serotonin is produced in the gut, not the brain. Despite this, many of the symptoms of serotonin deficiency are associated with the brain. Serotonin in the brain regulates mood and mental well-being. Here is an overview of symptoms caused by serotonin deficiency:
Carbohydrate Cravings
Carbohydrates temporarily increase serotonin levels. The increase in levels makes you feel better so you start to crave carbohydrates. A lasting craving for carbohydrates is a first and universal sign of low serotonin levels.
Anger
Because serotonin deficiency is linked to a change in behavior and mood, someone who is deficient may show signs of aggressive or violent behavior. Little annoyances can trigger intense anger. Additionally, suicidal thoughts are linked to low serotonin.
Anxiety
High levels of anxiety are a sign of low levels of serotonin. Anxiety includes feeling worried, apprehensive, or even having panic attacks.
Depression
Normal serotonin levels in the brain create a positive, happy, and confident mood, while low serotonin levels cause a depressed state of mind. In a depressed state, thoughts are more pessimistic, gloomy, and distrustful. Low serotonin levels are sometimes a contributing factor to a depressed mood that lasts longer than two weeks.
Fatigue
Extreme exhaustion, both mental and physical, is a symptom of low serotonin. Consistent feelings of tiredness and lethargy often continue until serotonin levels increase.
Insomnia
Insomnia is a disruption in normal sleeping patterns. Serotonin helps produce melatonin, which is needed for sleep. If serotonin levels are low, they will not produce an adequate amount of melatonin. Symptoms of insomnia include waking up in the middle of the night, restlessness, irritability, and an inability to fall back asleep when awakened.
Low Self-Esteem
A change or lack of self-confidence is another sign of serotonin deficiency. Symptoms of low self-esteem include a loss of self-worth, being overly critical of yourself, and having poor social confidence, which leads to social withdrawal.
Overeating
Due to carbohydrate cravings and a depressed mood caused by low serotonin, it is common for food to be used to satisfy cravings and unpleasant emotions. Emotional eating can lead to weight gain.
Sensitivity
Changes in emotional sensitivity are common as well. Those with low serotonin levels may find themselves wrongly interpreting comments or jokes as personal attacks.
Sensitivity to light is another change. Bright light may hurt your eyes or make you uncomfortable. A change in pain tolerance is another sign of low serotonin. Pain is tolerated better when serotonin levels are high, while low levels of serotonin cause low pain tolerance making one sensitive to minor pain. Headaches are often more severe and frequent. Last, increased sensitivity to sound is not unusual. Moderate sounds bother serotonin deficient people.
