Oxytocin - a hormone produced in the hypothalamus. Hypothalamus - a brain region that includes a large number of cells, which are responsible for brain activity. The hormone is moving in the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland - the gland responsible for all of the body's hormonal system. There it is collected and transported directly to the blood.
Description and norm
Oxytocin is responsible for the condition of the muscle tissue and vascular walls. Hormone gives a woman the maternal instinct and a feeling of attachment to the partner, affecting the reproductive system. Oxytocin is also the hormone of love and affection - he has an effect on the emotional sphere of personality.
The hormone oxytocin is synthesized in the female and male body. However, its concentration in the body of a woman is much higher, especially during pregnancy and childbirth. The hormone triggers a generic activity and contributes to the activation of the smooth muscle of the uterus. Its level in human plasma - 5.1 uU / mL. During labor, blood female hormone reaches a top strap 200 mU / L.
Oxytocin and food
To raise the level of oxytocin can use the products, which include the chemical element selenium - a zucchini, green beans, asparagus, pistachios, almonds, celery, broccoli, peas, squash and corn. From animal products - liver, and ostrich eggs. Also help to normalize the level of chocolate, avocados and bananas. Do not skimp on the positive emotions - the level of oxytocin depends on the affection, care and love.
Aberration
Low levels of oxytocin is accompanied by a change in behavior and mental health of women. With a shortage of the hormone appear depression, excessive anxiety, low self-esteem, depression and stress. Oxytocin is important in the process of conception, pregnancy, birth, so at the slightest suspicion of deviation from the norm is necessary to see a specialist.
When elevated levels of oxytocin reduces anxiety, improves the condition of the nervous and cardiovascular systems. The hormone is involved in the development and activation of endorphin - the hormone of happiness. Therefore, we can say with certainty that people with high levels of the hormone live a long and happy life. The hormone is also able to treat autism - people with this disease become emotionally and learn to understand the emotions of close faster.
