Serotonin’s Effects in the Body
Serotonin, aka 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) is an incredibly crucial neurotransmitter that is synthesized from the essential amino acid tryptophan. It is responsible for the overall physiological functions of the entire body including mood, memory, and behavior regulation. Serotonin has been linked with mental illness and antagonistic behavior, none of which is productive in the workplace. Recent studies show that higher levels of tryptophan calm adversarial behavior. It has the potential to lower cortisol (a stress hormone) after a challenging event. Digbi Health analyzes the distinct biology of each member’s genes and gut microbiome to determine his or her risk for poor serotonin biosynthesis. Learning where the body needs help allows us to make specific recommendations in diet and lifestyle. Read on to learn more…
At Digbi, we recognize that one’s health is multifaceted (which is why we avoid the one-size-fits-all approach). We address your employees’ exclusive spectrum of chronic, inflammatory conditions with a customized nutrition and exercise plan. Members also have access to a healing yoga and meditation community to continue holistic healing. Our members respond well to our therapeutic care, by drastically reducing their symptoms or eliminating their disorders altogether.
The Astronomical Costs of Serotonin Depletion
Image by Digbi Health
Source: https://www.statista.com/chart/3534/americans-are-tired-most-of-the-week/
More Than Two-thirds of Americans are Exhausted At Work
It’s pretty common in North America and often considered “ part of the job.” According to a recent study by the National Safety Council, more than two-thirds (close to 70%) of the U.S. workforce experiences exhaustion. This accounts for 107 million American workers not being physically equipped to complete their jobs. This liability can negatively affect company revenue and can even be life threatening in the fields combining manual labor and high-powered machinery like construction and manufacturing.
Digbi’s Serotonin Boosting Solutions
The gut produces most of the serotonin in the body, so it’s vital that we begin the health journey in the digestive system. Our therapeutic plans are unique for each client, but generally we focus on nutrient-dense meals with enough protein to maintain optimal neurotransmitter levels like serotonin.
It is necessary to understand which types of gut bacteria exist in order to feed and nurture the gut ecosystem to encourage the beneficial bacteria to thrive and ward off harmful bacteria. Gut health is tied to overall health which involves our three tenants: insulin management, reducing inflammation, and fiber diversity. When the gut is receiving the right nutrients, good health follows. Many members experience a significant reduction of symptoms after losing 5% of their body weight. Often, they find a reduction in comorbid symptoms as well.
Fatigue at work can be addressed through Digbi’s care plans. Seventy-one percent of Digbi members have renewed energy after losing 5% of their body weight. The same members may have brain fog or memory issues that can greatly affect their work performance. Sixty-four percent of Digbi members reduced these symptoms and 13% completely eliminated these issues. Avoiding processed foods and including nutrient-dense meals sets them up for success. Fiber-rich foods address insulin concerns and leads to a better quality of life.
Sleep and Serotonin
Sleep is another pertinent issue for workplace performance. According to the Sleep Foundation, sleep “ supports every system in the body.” They recommend that most adults get 7-9 hours of sleep per night. Digbi creates a unique plan for each client based on their genetics and gut biome that includes sleep recommendations. Sleep plays a role in increasing serotonin as well. There is a bi-directional feedback loop between sleep and serotonin. This means that getting an adequate amount of sleep helps maintain optimal levels of serotonin-producing gut bacteria. As well, the right diet feeds the gut to produce enough serotonin for better sleep.
As you can tell, all body systems are intertwined and can affect each other. Many clients come to us with gastrointestinal issues and find out that other comorbid symptoms decrease as they continue in the program. In the chart below, half of Digbi members with IBS had significant improvement in symptoms. Most members had marked reduction in pain symptoms which is notable for workplace performance and morale. An employee in pain is most likely struggling to keep with workplace demands.
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Source: Digbi Health white paper
Our overall results speak volumes about our plan’s efficacy. Not only are clients’ GI issues addressed, but they also experience less headaches, sleep apnea, and lower glucose levels. Our comprehensive strategy targeting insulin, inflammation, and fiber diversity makes for many happy clients.
Image by Digbi Health
Source: Digbi Health white paper
Improve Your Employees’ Health
Get your employees started on a holistic plan for wellness! We are continually expanding our knowledge of current research and to that end, want you to be educated as well. If you’d like to find out more, schedule a 30 minute call with Scott Levy, Chief Business Officer.
Digbi Health is a team of scientists, software engineers, and personal coaches striving to bring you the best in digital, therapeutic care. As we continue to learn about serotonin’s role in the gut and overall health, we’ll be sure to keep you updated.
