The 21st century is best characterized by the advent of modern technology, global trade and the economy, and an unstoppable desire to move forward. It is because of these factors that businesses compete in a world where the economy is active 24 hours a day, seven days a week. This phenomenon created a demand for employees who worked until the early hours of the morning even at night. This work schedule reversed the employee's lifestyle and made the day their time to sleep. Shifts can disrupt normal body functions, affects sleep cycles, and lower the body's serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter found in the central nervous system that affects multiple functions such as mood, sleep, sexuality, and appetite. This neurotransmitter can also promote cell regeneration. Workers tend to have lower levels of the "feel good hormone" called serotonin. In a research from the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, examined 683 men and compared 437 day laborers with 246 shift workers.The serotonin levels of the shift workers, measured by blood tests, were well below those of the day laborer. The reason behind this is serotonin levels control sleep patterns and other body functions. The study suggested that shift work can also lead to what is known as ‘Shift Work Sleep Disorder'.
People with this disorder tend to stay awake when they should be asleep. People can be very tired during the waking hours. This disorder occurs because of a work schedule that occurs during normal sleep time. Because of this, people have difficulty falling asleep because their bodies are still programmed to be awake. Sleeping and being awake are different from what the body schedule expects.
Other studies also found that night shift work can affect the cardiovascular and metabolic systems. These studies suggest that there is a possibility that shift work is directly responsible for high blood pressure and increased body fat percentage. In addition to disturbing sleep patterns, low serotonin levels are also linked to other diseases such as stress, anxiety and depression.
We should change our lifestyle pattern to avoid these kind of disorders. Lifestyle changes can lead to improved serotonin levels. For Serotonin to be consistent, sleep patterns must be consistent, and diet must include: the vitamins and minerals necessary to control serotonin levels. Certain drugs and substances such as caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and antidepressants should be avoided as they can reduce serotonin production. People looking to improve their serotonin levels can use medication to help them. However, prior to taking the supplements, patients are advised to obtain approval from Doctors and other health professionals.
People who work at night should get enough rest to reduce the harmful effects that may develop. A healthy lifestyle and a nutritious diet can improve serotonin levels and improve the quality of life.
