Good Sleep with a Good Intestinal Environment
The intestinal environment is important for immunity, but did you know that it is also related to sleep? When the intestinal environment is balanced, the brain can easily secrete “serotonin” and “melatonin” and the quality of sleep improves. Let’s work on maintaining a healthy intestinal environment to improve the quality of sleep and maintain good health.
What is melatonin that induces sleep?
Melatonin is a hormone that regulates the rhythm of the 24-hour cycle and is also called the “sleep hormone” because it is deeply involved in the quality of sleep. It is closely related to the day-night cycle. During the day, the secretion of melatonin is suppressed by bright light, but it is secreted in greater amounts in the brain when the sun goes down and we are relaxed. It is this melatonin that makes us sleepy at night.
What is serotonin, which relaxes the body and mind?
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that relieves tension and calms the mind, and is also called the “happy hormone. When serotonin is secreted in large quantities, the body enters a state of relaxation, which leads to a pleasant sleep at night.
How Serotonin and Melatonin are Produced
The production of serotonin and melatonin requires an essential amino acid alled tryptophan. Tryptophan is found in fish, meat, eggs, soy products, and dairy products, and tryptophan is formed when these proteins are digested. Next, serotonin is produced with the help of intestinal bacteria. Serotonin gradually converts to melatonin as the sun goes down.
When intestinal bacteria are reduced or imbalanced, serotonin production decreases and melatonin is also deficient. It is very important to maintain a healthy intestinal environment in order to lead a healthy life with good sleep.
Conclusion
Sleep has a significant impact on maintaining good health. It is recommended to actively take “foods containing tryptophan” to increase serotonin and melatonin, which are necessary for good sleep, and dietary fiber, which feeds good bacteria in the intestines. In addition, a regular lifestyle, including moderate exercise, will bring you closer to your ideal sleep. Please be aware of this for a comfortable sleep.
