The 21st century is characterized by the advent of ultra-modern technology, global commercial and trade, and an unstoppable desire to move forward and live. Because of these factors, business corporations compete in a world where the economy remains active 24 hours, seven days a week. The incident created a demand for employees who work in the morning as well as parts of the night. This work schedule reversed employee lifestyles, making the day bedtime. Whereas nature has created day for work and night for rest. Shifts can therefore disrupt normal body functions, interrupt the sleep cycle and decrease the body's serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter found in the central nervous system and affects many functions such as mood, sleep, sexuality, and appetite. This neurotransmitter can also promote cell regeneration.
Studies show that non-day shift workers have lower levels of the "feel-good" hormone called serotonin. Dr. Researchers at the University of Buenos Aires, led by Carlos J, Pirola studied 683 men and compared 437 day workers to 246 shift workers. The serotonin level of shift workers, measured through blood tests, was significantly lower than that of the regular day schedule. In addition to low serotonin levels, high cholesterol, hip-to-waist ratio, increased blood pressure, and high triglyceride levels were also found in shift workers.
Because serotonin levels manage sleep patterns and other body functions, the University of Buenos Aires suggested that shift work may also lead to a so-called shift work sleep disorder. People with this disorder stay awake while they are sleeping. These individuals may be very tired during waking hours. This disorder is caused by the work schedule that occurs during normal sleep periods. Because of this, people who have difficulty sleeping because their body still has a program to wake up. The time to sleep and stay awake is different from the expectation of the body's internal clock.
Other studies have also shown that nonstandard and nocturnal shifts may affect the cardiovascular and metabolic systems. These studies suggest that according to researchers in the Buenos Aires study, there is a possibility that shift work is directly responsible for high blood pressure and increased body fat. In addition to disruptions in sleep patterns, low levels of serotonin are also associated with other conditions such as stress, anxiety, and depression.
Changes in lifestyle can improve serotonin levels. To harmonize serotonin levels, sleep patterns must be consistent and foods must contain essential vitamins and minerals to control serotonin levels. Certain drugs and substances such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and antidepressants should be avoided as they can eliminate serotonin production.
Individuals who want to improve their serotonin levels can use the drug to aid in their goal. The amino acid 5-HTP can be taken as a supplement and improves the ability of the body to produce serotonin. Another amino acid called L-tryptophan is used by the body to produce serotonin. However, before taking these supplements, patients are advised to seek the approval of doctors and other health professionals. Individuals who choose to work at night should take adequate rest to reduce the ill effects that develop. A healthy lifestyle and nutritious diet can improve serotonin levels and improve quality of life.
