by Shelby Burns, MS, RDN/LDN
Serotonin, one of the most important signaling molecules within the gut, is derived from the amino acid tryptophan. It plays a pivotal role in initiating digestion and is crucial for normal functionality of the central nervous system because it sends messages between nerve cells.1 Furthermore, it contributes to our overall mood and ability to fall asleep. Because serotonin is involved in a wide variety of bodily functions, it is helpful to understand the difference between serotonin in the gut versus what some may call “brain serotonin.”
Brain serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for mood, behavior, and sleep. When brain serotonin is below optimal levels, one can feel depressed and even struggle with poor memory and sleep.2 That is because serotonin, synthesized in the neurons and pineal gland in the brain, is a precursor for the pineal hormone melatonin, which promotes sleep. Alternatively, when serotonin is above optimal levels, one may experience rapid heartbeat, agitation, or twitching muscles.3 Brain-derived serotonin, accounts for roughly 5% of total body serotonin, whereas 90–95% of serotonin originates in the gut.4
Peripheral serotonin, also known as gut-derived serotonin that is stored in the blood platelets, plays a different but still important role, especially in digestion.5 Excessive peripheral serotonin can lead to GI distress, such as diarrhea, and too little peripheral serotonin can lead to constipation. Because serotonin cannot cross the blood-brain barrier, peripheral serotonin functions independently from brain serotonin. However, neural pathways help to connect the brain and the stomach, so serotonin in the gut can send messages to the brain. These messages may include feelings of fear, happiness, and anxiety, and sensations such as pain or nausea.
The vagus nerve is one of the pathways that run from the brainstem to the abdomen. It is a prominent mediator in the gut-brain communication “highway,” helping to send messages between the gut and the brain. Serotonin released from the gut helps to stimulate the vagus nerve. It is speculated that this stimulation may affect feelings of hunger because the vagus nerve is involved in decreasing food intake and it influences regions of the brain that are responsible for controlling appetite.6 However, the function of peripheral serotonin in regulating food intake, nutrient absorption, storage, and utilization continues to be explored.
If Ixcela results indicate that serotonin levels are not optimal, specific recommendations, such as including more omega-3 fatty acids and tryptophan-rich foods, are triggered to support serotonin levels. The Ixcela Balance* supplement may also be recommended. Ixcela Balance directly supports serotonin because it contains 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), an amino acid that converts to serotonin both in the gut and in the brain. Normally, in the body, 5-HTP is converted from tryptophan and is able to cross the blood-brain barrier.
There is still more to learn about serotonin and the gut microbiome’s job in serotonin production. Although serotonin levels in the gut can be measured through blood sampling, serotonin levels in the brain cannot be measured. Therefore, while many treatments for depression focus on boosting serotonin in the brain, there is no way to know the exact concentration.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly prescribed antidepressants. SSRIs block the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin, leading to greater levels of serotonin in the brain. Because 5-HTP does cross the blood-brain barrier, it could lead to even higher serotonin levels. That is why we advise all Ixcela clients to check with their primary care providers prior to taking Ixcela Balance. Due to decreased reabsorption, serotonin production and storage decrease both peripherally and in the brain.7 Therefore, when serotonin is measured in the blood of someone who takes an SSRI, below-optimal levels may be found. Ixcela recommendations are then geared toward still supporting serotonin and gut function, while recognizing that there may be limitations if an individual is taking SSRIs.
We do not yet fully understand how additional serotonin in the brain impacts peripheral serotonin. Serotonin is a complex and multifaceted hormone, and if serotonin levels aren’t in balance, our mental, physical, and emotional health may suffer. This essential neurotransmitter is one of the key metabolites Ixcela tests because it can assist with sleep, digestion, mood, and bone health. It can also affect appetite and insulin sensitivity, along with energy intake and expenditure.8,9 Certain recommendations may need to be adjusted to suit individual needs, but implementing personalized Ixcela mindfulness, nutrition, and lifestyle recommendations is necessary for supporting serotonin levels and improving mood, sleep quality, and digestive health.
*Note: If you are taking antidepressants, specifically selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), you may need to abstain from taking 5-HTP supplements like Ixcela Balance. Please consult your physician before taking this supplement.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionist Shelby Burns has been in the fitness and nutrition industries for more than ten years. Shelby, who has personally struggled with gut issues, believes that exceptional wellness starts from within. Her passion for helping people prioritize their health shines through as she assists Ixcela clients in making diet and lifestyle shifts that result in renewed energy, better sleep, and improved digestion.
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Interested in learning more about Ixcela? Check out Ixcela’s test, to receive personalized nutrition, supplement, mindfulness, and fitness fitness recommendations based on the metabolites we test to improve energy, GI health, mood, and overall wellbeing.