Doctor's Assessment Included
Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
Serotonin
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood, sleep regulation, and digestive function. Maintaining balanced serotonin levels may contribute to emotional stability, restful sleep, and overall quality of life.
Reference Ranges
Low
0.28
Normal
1.14
High
Low
0.28
Normal
1.14
High
Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
What It Measures
This test measures the level of serotonin in your blood, reported in umol/l. Blood serotonin levels may reflect overall serotonin production, though they do not directly measure brain serotonin activity. Your healthcare provider can provide context.
Why It Matters
Balanced serotonin levels may support mood stability, healthy sleep patterns, and proper digestive function. Monitoring your levels could help identify potential imbalances early, allowing your healthcare provider to suggest appropriate lifestyle adjustments.
When to Test
Testing may be considered when experiencing persistent mood changes, unexplained sleep disturbances, or digestive irregularities. Some healthcare providers may recommend serotonin testing as part of a broader evaluation of neurotransmitter or hormonal function.
Symptoms
Low Levels
Some people with low serotonin levels may experience low mood, anxiety, difficulty sleeping, increased appetite for carbohydrates, or irritability. Low serotonin could potentially be associated with reduced feelings of well-being over time.
High Levels
Some people with elevated serotonin levels may experience restlessness, rapid heart rate, diarrhea, or muscle twitching. Significantly elevated levels could potentially indicate serotonin syndrome, which requires immediate medical attention.
Lifestyle Tips
Regular physical activity, adequate sunlight exposure, and a balanced diet rich in tryptophan-containing foods may support healthy serotonin levels. Stress management techniques could also be beneficial. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a blood serotonin test measure?
A blood serotonin test measures the amount of serotonin circulating in your bloodstream, reported in umol/l. Most blood serotonin is found in platelets. This test may not directly reflect brain serotonin levels, so discuss interpretation with your healthcare provider.
Can diet influence serotonin levels?
Certain foods containing tryptophan, such as turkey, eggs, nuts, and seeds, may support serotonin production. A balanced diet with adequate protein and complex carbohydrates could help maintain healthy levels. Your healthcare provider can offer dietary guidance.
Is serotonin only related to mood?
While serotonin is often associated with mood regulation, it also plays roles in sleep, appetite, digestion, and blood clotting. Approximately 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut, highlighting its broader physiological significance beyond mood.