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The hormone oxytocin is naturally produced by the body when the person is relaxed and safe, but it is possible to stimulate and increase its production through physical contact through hugs and massage, in addition to the practice of good deeds, healthy eating or the adoption of a pet, for example.
Oxytocin is found in both women and men, and is known to cause the sensation of pleasure and help with labor and breastfeeding, but it is also essential to improve interpersonal relationships and well-being, in addition it is responsible for reduce the chances of a psychological disorder like anxiety.
Thus, the main natural ways to increase oxytocin are:
1. Physical contact
Physical contact in the form of hugs, massage, cuddling and caresses stimulate the production of oxytocin, and is one of the causes of well-being when it is performed. Intimate contact between partners is also a way to increase the production of this hormone, since it is essential for the feeling of pleasure at these times.
In addition, having deep relationships of friendship, where there is trust and love, is good for health because there is release of adrenaline, norepinephrine, oxytocin and serotonin in the bloodstream, which are hormones responsible for the feeling of happiness and well-being.
2. Do good deeds
Being generous, honest and compassionate is able to increase the levels of oxytocin in the bloodstream, as the brain interprets these attitudes as ways to inspire confidence and good feelings to the body, causing more production of this hormone.
Cultivating a positive emotional state, stimulates not only the production of oxytocin, but also other hormones such as dopamine, serotonin and endorphins, which are essential for the feeling of happiness, in addition to reducing the chances of the appearance of depression and anxiety. Learn other benefits that oxytocin can bring to the body.
3. Breastfeed
The baby's sucking motion in the breast during breastfeeding, when the woman feels relaxed and safe and feeling good about breastfeeding, has an immediate effect on the hypothalamus, a region of the brain capable of releasing oxytocin into the bloodstream.
4. Eat a balanced diet
A balanced and healthy diet, based on vegetables, fruits, vegetables and cereals helps the body increase the production of oxytocin and other well-being hormones. For this purpose, foods rich in vitamin C, magnesium, vitamin D and taurine should be included in the diet, in addition to the use of natural teas in the diet that can reduce anxiety, such as chamomile and lavender. Check out other 5 natural tea options to reduce anxiety and nervousness.
5. Adopt a pet
The presence of a pet, in addition to reducing cortisol, a hormone responsible for stress, increases the levels of oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin in the blood. In addition to reducing anxiety and feeling of loneliness, it increases the feeling of well-being and prolongs it for longer.