India
A 17-year-old male asked:
does exercise increase serotonin levels and reduce depression?
2 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
Dr. James Eyerman answered
Psychiatry 47 years experience
Exercise is best: Exercise is the best biological treatment for depression and anxiety, followed by ect, then medications. Exercise increases the bdnf most. Brain derived neurotropic factors [bdnf] is what restores the hippocampus and other brain structures. Serotonin and other neurotransmitter balance is then naturally restored.
Moderate exercise also helps rejuvenate almost every other organ system in the body.
4544 views
Dr. Heidi Fowler answered
Psychiatry 25 years experience
Exercise is beleived: To ^ serotonin. Exercise can be a powerful tool in reducing depressive symptoms.
4544 views
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more. Get help now:
90,000 U.S. doctors in 147 specialties are here to answer your questions or offer you advice, prescriptions, and more. Get help now:
Last updated Nov 27, 2017
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits
$15 per month
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.