The current century (21st Century) is best characterized by the advent of ultra-modern technology, global commercial and business, and the unstoppable desire to get and stay ahead. Due to these factors, business corporations compete in a world where the economy is active 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This situation created a demand for employees that would work even during the night before the wee hours of the morning. This kind of work schedule reversed employee lifestyle, making the day their time to for sleeping. Shifts may disrupt the normal body functions, hamper sleep cycles, and reduce the body’s serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter which is found in the central nervous system and impacts multiple functions like mood, sleep, and appetite. This neurotransmitter can also able to regenerate the cells.
Many studies show that non-day shift workers tend to have lower levels of “feel-good” hormones called serotonin. Scientist at the University of Buenos Aires led by Dr. Carlos J studied cases of 683 men and compared 437- day workers to 246 shift workers. The results of the shift workers’ serotonin levels, measured through blood tests, were significantly lower than those on regular day schedules. While reducing the serotonin levels, shift workers were also found to have higher cholesterol, hip-to-waist ratios, increased blood pressure, and higher triglyceride levels.
As a result serotonin levels administer sleep patterns and other body functions, the University of Buenos Aires study suggested that shift work may also lead to a so-called Shift Work Sleep Disorder. Workers with this disorder tend to remain awake when they should be sleeping. This kind of individuals can be very tired during waking hours. This type of disorder takes place because of a work schedule that takes place during the normal sleep time. Due to this, people who have difficulty getting sleep because their bodies are still programmed to be awake. The time of being asleep and being awake is different from what the body’s internal clock expects.
Many studies also found out that non-standard and night shift work may affect the cardiovascular and metabolic systems. Studies recommend that there is a possibility that shift work may be directly responsible for high blood pressure and increased body fat, as per the research of Buenos Aires study. Due to the disruption of sleep patterns, reduced levels of serotonin are also linked to other conditions like stress, anxiety and depression.
Studies found that Lifestyle changes can lead to improved serotonin levels. To maintain serotonin levels consistent, sleep patterns should be consistent, food regimens should include necessary vitamins and minerals to control the serotonin levels. Many drugs and substances like caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and antidepressants should be avoided because they may deplete serotonin production. There are so many herbs that can improve serotonin level naturally without any negative impact.
People those who want to improve their serotonin levels can use medication to aid them in their daily life. The amino acid 5-HTP can be taken as a supplement and that can improve the body’s ability to manufacture serotonin. An amino acid called L-tryptophan is used by the body to produce serotonin. If really anyone need to take any kind of these supplements, people are advised to seek the prior approval of doctors and other health professionals. People who choose to work in the night should maintain adequate rest to minimize ill effects which may develop by the night working. Healthy lifestyles and nutritious food regimens may improve serotonin levels and improve one’s quality of life.
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