Mood and sleep are intrinsically linked and significantly affected by biochemical and environmental disturbances. The ‘monoamine hypothesis’ suggests that the development of mood, sleep and behavioural disorders occurs when monoamines, such as the neurotransmitters serotonin and noradrenaline, are at insufficient level. Therefore, associated symptoms and conditions can be improved by increasing these neurotransmitters. Whilst low serotonin can contribute to lower mood, poor sleeping patterns and altered behaviour, this does not occur in isolation. Psychosocial and environmental factors, stress, nutritional status, inflammation and a range of other influences also contribute to the development of sleep and mood dysregulation and should be taken into consideration when implementing a nutritional intervention.
For this reason, it is essential that you seek the advice of a qualified naturopath and not try and self-prescribe.