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Does Serotonin Make You Sleepy?

Published in Neuroscience 1 min read

While serotonin is often associated with feelings of happiness and well-being, it doesn't directly make you sleepy. In fact, serotonin plays a role in regulating wakefulness and alertness.

Serotonin and Sleep

  • Serotonin's role in sleep: Serotonin is involved in the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep-wake cycles.
  • How serotonin influences sleep: During the day, serotonin levels are high, promoting wakefulness. As the evening approaches, serotonin levels decrease, allowing for the production of melatonin and promoting sleepiness.
  • Relationship between serotonin and sleep disorders: Low serotonin levels are associated with some sleep disorders, such as insomnia.

Other Factors Affecting Sleep

  • Other neurotransmitters: Other neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and GABA, also play a role in sleep regulation.
  • Lifestyle factors: Factors like stress, diet, and exercise can influence sleep quality.

While serotonin doesn't directly make you sleepy, it plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy sleep-wake cycle.

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