Serotonin facts for kids
Serotonin is a special chemical in your body called a neurotransmitter. Think of it like a messenger that helps different parts of your body talk to each other. Its full chemical name is 5-Hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT for short. Your body makes serotonin from something called tryptophan, which you get from food.
You can find serotonin in many places. It's mostly in your gastrointestinal tract (your gut), in tiny blood cells called platelets, and in your central nervous system (your brain and spinal cord).
The name "serotonin" comes from its discovery. Scientists first found it in a part of blood called serum. They saw it could change the "tonus" or tightness of blood vessels, affecting blood pressure. Serotonin also plays a big role in how you feel. It helps you feel happy and well, which is why some people call it the "happiness hormone." But it's actually a neurotransmitter, not a hormone.
Serotonin isn't just in humans and animals. It's also found in fungi and plants. For example, some insect stings and plant spines use serotonin to cause pain. Some tiny living things called amoebas can also make serotonin, which might cause an upset stomach. Many seeds and fruits contain serotonin too. This might help animals digest them and spread the seeds.
Serotonin can even affect how animals behave in groups. For instance, if a lobster is given serotonin, it might act like a leader!
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See also
In Spanish: Serotonina para niños
