The emergence of cutting-edge technology, international trade, and business, and the unquenchable ambition to overtake and maintain an advantage best describe the 21st century. Due to these aspects, businesses compete in a world where the economy is active every day of the week, around the clock. Due to this phenomenon, employers needed workers who would stay late into the night and early the next morning. The employee’s lifestyle was flipped by this work schedule, which made the day their time for napping. Shifts may impair sleep cycles, interfere with regular bodily processes, and lower serotonin levels. A neurotransmitter called serotonin is present in the central nervous system and affects a number of processes, including mood, sleep, sexuality, and appetite. Additionally, this neurotransmitter might encourage cell renewal.
According to studies, non-day shift employees typically have lower serotonin levels than day shift workers. 437-day employees and 246 shift workers were compared by researchers at the University of Buenos Aires under the direction of Dr. Carlos J. Pirola in their study of 683 men. Blood tests revealed that the serotonin levels of shift workers were considerably lower than those of people who worked typical daytime hours. Shift workers were also shown to have lower levels of serotonin, higher cholesterol, higher hip-to-waist ratios, higher blood pressure, and higher triglyceride levels.
The University of Buenos Aires study hypothesized that shift work may also result in a condition known as “Shift Work Sleep Disorder” since serotonin regulates sleep patterns and other bodily functions. The tendency of those who have this disorder is to sleep less than they should. These people may experience extreme sleepiness during the day. Because of a work schedule that occurs during the time when people normally sleep, this disorder exists. People struggle to go sleep as a result of their bodies still being hardwired to be awake. The body’s internal clock does not agree with the times when we are awake and asleep.
The cardiovascular and metabolic systems may be impacted by irregular and night shift work, according to several studies. According to the researchers of the Buenos Aires study, these results raise the idea that shift work is directly to blame for high blood pressure and increased body fat. Reduced serotonin levels are associated with various illnesses like stress, anxiety, and depression in addition to disrupting sleep habits.
Serotonin levels can rise as a result of a change in lifestyle. Consistent sleep patterns and a diet rich in the vitamins and minerals needed to regulate serotonin levels are both crucial for maintaining stable serotonin levels. Avoid using medicines and chemicals that may reduce serotonin production, such as caffeine, cigarettes, alcohol, and antidepressants.
Medication can help those who want to increase their serotonin levels achieve their objective. Serotonin production is enhanced by the amino acid 5-HTP, which is available as a supplement. The body uses L-tryptophan, an additional amino acid, to make serotonin. Patients are urged to consult with doctors and other healthcare providers before taking these supplements, nevertheless. People who choose to work at night should get enough sleep to minimize any potential negative impacts. Serotonin levels can be raised and a person’s quality of life can be enhanced by leading a healthy lifestyle and eating a nutritious diet.