Anxiety/Depression, Sleep & Wake Cycle

Anxiety/Depression, Sleep & Wake Cycle

Serotonin is a chemical that sends signals between nerve cells.  Serotonin is mostly produced in the guts (90%) and blood stream (8%), and only 2% in the brain.  Serotonin itself does not cross blood-brain barrier; it is converted by an essential amino acid called tryptophan in your body.  Yet, the efficiency of conversion can be impeded by other factors such as inflammation, neuroplasticity and stress. 

Acupuncture treatments curbs and calms inflammation by regulating hormonal imbalance.  Serotonin provides a sense of well-being and satisfaction. Not enough serotonin can cause depression.   Intake of antidepressant often makes the condition worse in the initial stage of treatment; its efficacy often decreases with time so the dosage needs to be increased. 

Serotonin is also the precursor for melatonin that is the key hormone that governs our sleep-and-wake cycle.  Your body needs good sleep for cell-repairing and healing.  Your brain needs deep sleep to purge accumulated waste.  Stress often plays havoc on sleep condition.  Acupuncture treatments balance your body’s internal equilibrium and help boost your moods and sleep condition.