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Writer's pictureMarleen ter Heide

How Hormones Affect Mood and Happiness

Updated: Jul 30

Disclaimer: We are not doctors; this information is based on our research. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen.


Happy woman in sunflower field.

Have you ever wondered why some days you feel on top of the world and other days you’re struggling just to get through? We were curious about how hormones affect our mood and happiness, so we did our research to provide you with the latest insights. Hormones play a vital role in regulating our mood and overall sense of happiness. In this article, we’ll explore how hormones affect mood and happiness, especially in women, and discuss natural ways to maintain hormonal balance.


The Role of Hormones in Mood and Happiness in Women

Hormones are chemical messengers that travel through the bloodstream to tissues and organs, affecting various bodily functions. For women, hormonal fluctuations are a natural part of life, particularly during menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. These hormonal changes can significantly impact mood and emotional well-being.


Key Hormones Impacting Mood and Happiness

  • Estrogen: Known as the female hormone, estrogen helps regulate mood by influencing the production of serotonin, the brain's "feel-good" chemical.

  • Progesterone: This hormone has a calming effect and helps prepare the body for pregnancy.

  • Cortisol: Often referred to as the stress hormone, cortisol can affect mood and energy levels, especially when levels are imbalanced. There is research showing that lower cortisol levels are associated with higher well-being.

  • Testosterone: Present in lower levels in women, testosterone also plays a role in mood and energy.


What Are Happy Hormones?

Happy hormones are chemicals in the brain that promote feelings of well-being, happiness, and pleasure. The primary happy hormones include:


  • Serotonin: Often called the "feel-good" hormone, it regulates mood, appetite, and sleep. Research is linking higher serotonin levels to greater well-being. It is produced both in the brain and the gut, with about 95% of the body's serotonin made in the intestine, playing a key role in the brain-gut axis​​.

  • Dopamine: Known as the "reward" hormone, it provides feelings of pleasure and motivation. Dopamine is produced by brain structures such as the substantia nigra, ventral tegmental area, and hypothalamus.

  • Oxytocin: Sometimes referred to as the "love hormone," it promotes feelings of bonding and trust, and is released during activities like physical touch and social bonding.

  • Endorphins: These are the body's natural painkillers and mood enhancers, released during activities like exercise, laughter, and love, as explained by HealthNews.

The Link Between Estrogen and Serotonin Throughout a Woman's Cycle

Estrogen and serotonin have a closely linked relationship. Estrogen helps increase serotonin production and the number of serotonin receptors in the brain. Throughout a woman's menstrual cycle, estrogen levels fluctuate, which can influence serotonin levels and, consequently, mood.


  • Follicular Phase: Estrogen levels rise, leading to increased serotonin production and typically better moods.

  • Ovulation: Estrogen peaks, often resulting in elevated moods and energy levels.

  • Luteal Phase: Estrogen drops, which can lead to lower serotonin levels and mood swings or irritability.


Natural Remedies for Hormone Imbalance

There are several lifestyle choices and activities that can boost the production of happiness hormones:


  • Exercise: Physical activity increases endorphins and serotonin.

  • Diet: Eating foods rich in tryptophan, such as turkey, eggs, and cheese, can boost serotonin levels.

  • Sunlight: Exposure to sunlight increases serotonin production.

  • Social Connections: Research indicates that positive social interactions can boost oxytocin and dopamine.

  • Mindfulness and Meditation: There is research showing that mindfulness practices and medicated can reduce cortisol levels and increase serotonin.


mindfulness in writing

Supplements to Consider

For those struggling with hormonal imbalances, certain supplements can help:


  • Magnesium: Helps regulate cortisol levels and improve sleep.

  • Vitamin D: Essential for serotonin production.

  • B Vitamins: Important for neurotransmitter function and energy production.

  • Probiotics: Support gut health, which is linked to serotonin production.

  • Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Important for brain health and mood regulation.

  • Ashwagandha: Research showed that it has stress-reducing properties and the ability to lower cortisol levels which are crucial in the context of reproductive health.

When to Seek Medical Advice

It's important to seek medical advice if you experience severe or persistent symptoms of hormonal imbalance. Signs to watch for include:


  • Severe mood swings or depression

  • Persistent fatigue

  • Unexplained weight gain or loss

  • Irregular menstrual cycles

  • Difficulty sleeping


A healthcare professional can perform a hormones blood test or other hormones test to diagnose imbalances and recommend appropriate treatments.


Understanding how hormones affect mood and happiness is crucial for maintaining overall well-being. By making informed lifestyle choices and seeking medical advice when necessary, you can better manage your mood and enhance your happiness. Take control of your health today and consult with a healthcare professional to ensure your hormones are balanced and functioning optimally.


Key Takeaways

  • Hormones play a significant role in regulating mood and happiness.

  • Happy hormones like serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, and endorphins are crucial for well-being.

  • Estrogen levels influence serotonin production throughout the menstrual cycle.

  • Exercise, diet, sunlight, social connections, and mindfulness can boost happiness hormones.

  • Supplements such as magnesium, vitamin D, B vitamins, probiotics, and omega-3 fatty acids can help manage hormonal imbalances.

  • Seek medical advice if you experience severe or persistent symptoms of hormonal imbalance.


FAQ

How do hormones affect mood and happiness?

Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, and testosterone regulate mood and emotional well-being by influencing neurotransmitters in the brain.

What are happy hormones?

How does estrogen affect serotonin levels?

What can I do to boost my happy hormones naturally?

What supplements can help with hormone balance?

When should I seek medical advice for hormone imbalance?

How can a hormone test help?

What are the symptoms of hormone imbalance in females?

Can probiotics help with hormone balance?

What lifestyle changes can help balance hormones?


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