The current Century is best characterized by the advent of ultra-modern technology, global commercial and business, and the unstoppable desire to get and stay ahead. Because of these factors, business corporations compete in a world where the economy is active all time, seven days a week. This phenomenon created a demand for employees that would work even during the night up to the wee hours of the morning. This work schedule reversed employees 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 that is found in the central nervous system and impacts multiple functions like sleep and appetite. That neurotransmitter may also promote cell regeneration. Studies show that non-day shift workers tend to have lower levels of “feel-good” hormones called serotonin. Researchers at the University of Buena Aires led by Dr. Carlos J, Pirogi studied 683 men and compared 437-day workers to 246 shift workers. In the results, the shift workers’ serotonin levels, measured through blood tests, were significantly lower than those on regular day schedules. In addition to reduced serotonin levels, shift workers were also found to have higher cholesterol, increased blood pressure, and higher triglyceride levels. Because serotonin levels administer sleep patterns and the University of Buenos Aires study suggested that shift work may also lead to a so-called Shift Work Sleep Disorder. People with this disorder tend to remaining awake when they should be sleeping. These individuals can be very tired during waking every hour. This disorder takes place because of a work schedule that takes place during the normal sleeping period. Because of this, people who have difficulty get 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. Other study also found out that non-standard and night shift work 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 the researchers of the Buenos Aires study. In addition to the disruption of sleep patterns, reduced levels of serotonin are also linked to other conditions like stress, and depression. Lifestyle change can lead to improved serotonin levels. To make serotonin level consistent, sleep patterns should be consistent, and food regimens should include necessary vitamins and minerals to control the serotonin levels. Certain drugs and substances like caffeine, alcohol, and antidepressants should be avoided because they may deplete serotonin production. Individuals who want to improve their serotonin level can use medication to aid them in their goal. The amino acid 5-HTP can be taken as a supplement and improve the body’s ability to manufacture serotonin. Another amino acid call L-tryptophan is used by the body to produce serotonin. However, patients are advised to seek the approval of doctors and other health professionals. Individuals who select to work in the night should maintain adequate rest to lessen ill-effects that may develop. Healthy lifestyles and nutritious food regimens may improve serotonin levels and improve one’s quality of life.
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