01/27/2021
Have you or your kids been feeling stir-crazy, moody, depressed, or irritable recently?
READ THIS!!!
With the lockdown in effect, we are not getting outside or doing the things we want to as much as we normally do. We are spending far too much time inside, and most likely filling our time by looking at a screen (like you are right now). I understand, we are so limited to what we can do right now. However, this could be affecting our hormones, specifically Serotonin.
Serotonin is a a chemical messenger in your brain that is involved in many processes throughout your body. It is involved with:
regulating mood
promoting positive feelings or prosocial behaviour
promoting learning and memory
promoting good sleep
helping regular appetite and promoting good digestion
If you have low Serotonin, you might:
feel anxious or depressed
feel irritable or aggressive
have sleep issues or feel fatigued
feel impulsive
have a decreased appetite
experience nausea or digestive issues
crave sweets and carbohydrate-rich foods
To increase Serotonin levels, try the following:
Eat protein-rich food. Serotonin does not directly come from food, but protein-rich foods contain Tryptophan, which can be converted to Serotonin in you brain.
Exercise. Regular exercise creates an ideal environment for more Tryptophan to reach your brain, where it is converted to Serotonin. Aerobic exercise is the best according to research. Good aerobic exercise includes brisk walking jogging, swimming, or cycling.
Seek natural bright light. Research has shown that Serotonin levels are lower after winter and higher during summer and fall. This may explain why most of us can’t wait for spring to start every year. Spending time in the sunshine helps to increase Serotonin levels. Try spending at least 10-15 minutes outside each day.
Like you, I am sick and tired of COVID. Perhaps implementing some of these strategies into your family routine may help you get through this lockdown. You can do this!
Together, let’s get you better!
Dr. Drew
