The 21st Century is marked by the advent of modern technology, global trade and commerce, and the unwavering desire to find and stay afloat. Because of these factors, business companies compete in a world where the economy works 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This created a need for workers who would work late into the night until very early in the morning. This work schedule has changed the lifestyle of workers, making the day their bedtime. Shifts can disrupt normal body function, disrupt sleep cycles, and lower serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter found in the central nervous system and is involved in many functions such as anxiety, sleep, sex, and diet. This neurotransmitter can also promote cell regeneration.
Studies show that day-to-day workers are less likely to have lower levels of a “good” hormone called serotonin. Researchers at the University of Buenos Aires led by Dr. Carlos J, Pirola studied 683 men and 437-day workers and 246 staff working shifts. The results, serotonin levels of shift workers measured by blood tests, were much lower than those of normal daily schedules. In addition to lowering serotonin levels, shift workers have also been found to have higher cholesterol, waist-to-waist ratios, increased blood pressure, and higher triglyceride levels.
Because serotonin levels regulate sleep patterns and other bodily functions, a University of Buenos Aires study suggested that shift work could also lead to Shift Work Sleep Disorder. People with this condition often stay awake when they should be sleeping. These people can get exhausted during waking hours. This condition occurs due to a work schedule that occurs during normal sleep. Because of this, people have trouble getting to sleep because their bodies are still preparing to wake up. The time to sleep and to wake up is different from what the body's internal clock expects.
Some studies have also found that abnormal work and night work can affect cardiovascular systems. According to researchers from the Buenos Aires study, these studies suggest that the shift function may be directly related to high blood pressure and increased body fat. In addition to disturbances of sleep patterns, reduced serotonin levels are also linked to other conditions such as depression, anxiety, and depression.
Lifestyle changes can lead to improved levels of serotonin. To keep serotonin levels consistent, sleep patterns should be consistent and dietary patterns should include vitamins and minerals needed to control serotonin levels. Certain drugs and substances such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and anti-depressants should be avoided as they may inhibit serotonin production.
People who want to improve their serotonin levels can use medication to help them with their goals. The amino acid 5-HTP can be taken as a supplement and improve the body's ability to make 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 permission from doctors and other health professionals. People who choose to work at night should keep enough rest to minimize possible side effects. Healthy lifestyles and nutritional strategies can improve serotonin levels and improve a person's quality of life.
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