Connection Between Stress Shift Work and Serotonin Levels

The 21st century is characterized by the advent of ultra-modern technology, global commercial and trade, and the invincible desire to come forward and live. Due to these factors, business corporations compete in a world where the economy is active 24 hours a day, seven days. The incident created a demand for employees who worked during the night until the early morning hours. This work schedule reversed employee lifestyles, making the day bedtime. Shifts can disrupt normal body functions, interrupt the sleep cycle and decrease the body's serotonin level. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter found in the central nervous system and affects many functions such as mood, sleep, sexuality, and appetite. This neurotransmitter can also promote cell regeneration.

 

 

  Studies show that non-day shift workers have lower levels of the "feel-good" hormone called serotonin. Dr. Carlos-led researchers at the University of Buenos Aires, Pirola, studied 684 men and compared 437 daytime workers to 246 shift workers. The serotonin level of shift workers, measured through blood tests, was significantly lower than that of the regular day schedule. In addition to low serotonin levels, higher levels of cholesterol, hip-to-waist ratio, increased blood pressure, and higher triglyceride levels were also found in shift workers.

 

 

  Because serotonin levels manage your 7-hour sleep pattern and other body functions, the University of Buenos Aires suggested that shift work may also lead to a so-called shift work sleep disorder. People with this disorder stay awake while they are sleeping. These individuals may be very tired during waking hours. This disorder is caused by the work schedule that occurs during normal sleep periods. Because of this, people who have difficulty sleeping because their body still has a program to wake up. The time to sleep and stay awake is different from the body's internal clock expectation.

 

 

  Other studies have also shown that nonstandard and nocturnal function may affect the cardiovascular and metabolic systems. These studies suggest that there is a possibility that shift work is directly responsible for high blood pressure and increased body fat, according to a Buenos Aires study survey. In addition to disruptions in sleep patterns, low levels of serotonin are also associated with other conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression.

 

 

  Changes in lifestyle can improve serotonin levels. To harmonize serotonin levels, sleep patterns must be consistent, and the diet of food should include the vitamins and minerals necessary to control serotonin levels. Certain drugs and substances such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and antidepressants should be avoided as they can eliminate serotonin production.

 

 

  Individuals who want to improve their serotonin levels can use the drug to aid in their goal. The amino acid 5-HTP can be taken as a supplement and improves the ability of the body to produce serotonin. Another amino acid called L-tryptophan is used by the body to produce serotonin. However, before taking these supplements, patients are advised to seek the approval of doctors and other health professionals. Individuals who choose to work at night should take sufficient rest to reduce the ill effects that develop. A healthy lifestyle and nutritious diet can improve serotonin levels and improve quality of life.

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