Relationship between stress shift work and serotonin levels, Links Between Stress Shift Work And Serotonin Levels, Does stress affect serotonin level?, A comparison between rotating night shifts and day shifts, The impact of shift work on the psychological and physical health

Relationship between stress shift work and serotonin levels | Does stress affect serotonin level?

The 21st century is characterized by the advent of ultra-modern technology, global commercial and trade, and an insatiable desire to grow and survive. Because of these factors, commercial corporations also compete in a world where the economy is active 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This incident increased the demand of those employees who worked even at night till early morning. This work schedule reversed the lifestyle of the employees, making the employees day time to sleep and night time to wake up. Such changes can disrupt normal body functions, disrupt sleep cycles, and reduce the body's serotonin levels. Serotonin is a type of neurotransmitter found in the central nervous system, and affects sleep, sexuality, mood, and appetite, among many more. This neurotransmitter also promotes cell regeneration.

Multiple studies have shown that night-time workers have lower levels of a "feel-good" hormone called serotonin. The researchers, led by Dr. Carlos J. Pirola, studied 683 men from the University of Buenos Aires and compared 437-day workers with 246-night workers. Blood tests found that night worker had significantly lower serotonin levels than regular day workers. In addition to lower serotonin levels, shift workers were also found to have increased blood pressure, higher cholesterol, higher triglyceride levels, and a hip-to-waist ratio.

Because serotonin levels regulate sleep patterns and other body functions, the University of Buenos Aires study also suggested that shift work may also lead to so-called shift work sleep disorder. People with this disorder stay awake while sleeping. These individuals may be extremely tired during waking hours. This disorder is caused by work schedules that occur during normal sleep periods. Because of this, people have difficulty sleeping because their bodies are still programmed to stay awake. Sleep and wake times differ from what the body's internal clock expects.

Other studies and tests have also shown that non-standard and night shift work can affect the cardiovascular and metabolic systems of a person. These studies suggest, according to researchers from the Buenos Aires study, that shift work is directly responsible for high blood pressure and increased body fat. In addition to disruption in sleep patterns, low levels of serotonin are also linked to other conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression.

Serotonin levels can be improved with everyday lifestyle changes. For serotonin levels to be consistent, the sleep pattern must be consistent and the food regimen must contain the vitamins and minerals necessary to regulate serotonin levels. Certain drugs and substances such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and antidepressants should be avoided as they can reduce serotonin production.

Individuals who wish to improve their serotonin levels can use prescription medication to help with their goals. The amino acid 5-HTP can be taken as a serotonin supplement and may improve the body's ability to manufacture serotonin. Another amino acid called L-tryptophan is used by the body to produce serotonin or to improve serotonin levels. But remember, before taking these supplements, patients are advised to seek the approval of doctors and other healthcare professionals. People who choose to work at night should get enough rest to reduce side effects that develop. A nutritious diet and a healthy lifestyle can improve serotonin levels and improve quality of life.