09/23/2024
BENEFITS OF OXYTOCIN:
Oxytocin is both a hormone and a neurotransmitter. Hormones travel through the blood stream and act on electrical signals in your brain and nerves called neurotransmitters
acting with parts of the brain and nerve cells.
Oxytocin —is one of the most important hormones that humans (and many other mammals) produce.
It plays an important role in:
• social bonding
• building relationships
• reproduction
• childbirth
• breastfeeding
• raising children
Here’s something that may come as a surprise: According to the American Psychological Association,
Oxytocin is released in response to both positive social connection and stressful conditions.
Levels have been found to be higher when someone is under stress, such as when exposed to social
isolation or when in an unhappy relationship. It’s thought that increased levels may help motivate people to reach out for help.
On the other hand, situations that make us feel safe, happy and connected tend to cause the release of
several “feel-good hormones,” including oxytocin, dopamine and serotonin.
What Is Oxytocin?
Oxytocin is a hormone (technically a peptide or neuropeptide) that is involved in bonding. As a neuropeptide, it’s a “chemical messenger” that acts on organs, including the brain.
What does oxytocin do, and where is it produced?
Oxytocin is produced in the hypothalamus region in the brain, often called the “control center” of the
brain. It’s also thought to be influenced by activation of the amygdala, which is the region of the brain
mostly associated with fear and memories.
Once the hypothalamus sends signals for oxytocin to be produced, it’s either released into the
bloodstream or to other parts of the brain and spinal cord. It binds to oxytocin receptors, influencing
how we feel and behave toward others.
Oxytocin influences the autonomic nervous system and the immune system. This includes having an
effect on the “hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis” (also called the HPA axis), which dictates release of
many hormones.
This peptide hormone has been said to have “broad implications” for general health, including
facilitating adaption to stressors, development, growth, healing, reproduction and social behavior. It
also seems to have anti-inflammatory and even antioxidant effects, since it defends the body against
trauma, illness and stress-induced damage.
Additionally, it helps keep blood pressure levels in the normal range and also balances cortisol levels,
a primary “stress hormone.”
We usually think of it as a feminine hormone, but do men produce oxytocin too?
Yes — while it was originally considered a hormone that was only found in women due to its tie to labor,
lactation and raising children, it’s now known to be present and important in both men and women
(although women are still thought to produce more).
For example, oxytocin helps with male reproduction — as well as female reproduction — by supporting
production of testosterone in the te**es and motility of s***m. Additionally, it affects both s*xes’
metabolisms, moods, immune systems and more.
Oxytocin also has similarities to endorphins (op**te chemicals) because we produce more in order to
soothe ourselves in response to sources of pain and stress.
How does oxytocin make you feel? Here’s a basic overview of the emotional effects of oxytocin:
• Research tells us that oxytocin’s effects are basically the opposite of those linked to our “fight or
flight” response. Higher levels are linked to feeling calmer and having a better capacity to deal
with stress.
• New research suggests that increased oxytocin can potentially also increase feelings of
generosity, forgiveness, trustworthiness, joy and security.
• It seems to help increase fidelity and monogamy in relationships by keeping us honest and
facilitating compassion/empathy toward others — plus it increases feelings of protectiveness.
Boosts Our Ability to Cope with Stress
While it also works under times of low stress, oxytocin has been shown to be elevated under times of
high stress, too.
Some studies have found that people who report having poor social relationships usually have higher
circulating levels of both oxytocin and the stress hormone cortisol than those reporting better
relationships.
Externally administering the hormone via supplements has been shown to help mitigate stress
reactions, acting as a type of natural buffer. It can make people who are stressed seek out support
through better social connections.
It may also help protect the nervous system from shutting down in the face of stressful circumstances,
including childbirth.
Some animal studies show that treatment with oxytocin causes stressed animals to no longer display
signs of depression, anxiety or cardiac stress. By increasing someone’s motivation to find
help from others, the hormone can help people find opportunities and engage in behaviors that lead to
more security, joy and love.
It also slows or dimishes typical Anti-Aging and Anti-Obesity Effects
In one study, it was shown that higher oxytocin release is linked with protection against accelerated
signs of aging and better regeneration of aged tissue stem cells, including muscle cells.
Oxytocin injections may be used in the future to help injuries heal better, improve bone health and
possibly prevent obesity.
For example, some animal studies have found that oxytocin administration leads to sustained weight
reduction by reducing food intake, which is believed to happen because it dampens the brain’s food-
related reward circuitry.
Additionally, it seems to reduce muscle and joint pain due to pain-dulling and anti-inflammatory effects.
Higher circulating levels are also thought to be positively associated with lean mass and bone mineral
density.
How to Increase It
Both higher- and lower-than-normal levels of oxytocin can cause health problems and changes in
behavior among women and men, according to endocrinologists. Here are some examples of how:
• Low levels (what some might call “oxytocin deficiency”) among women can interfere with child
labor and breastfeeding.
• Low levels among both s*xes have been linked to depression and anxiety, although it still isn’t
totally clear how administering oxytocin supplements can help treat these and other mental
health conditions.
• It’s also believed that low levels may be tied to autism and autistic spectrum disorders.
Here are ways that you can naturally boost your production in order to promote feelings of well-being
and connectedness:
• Physical contact — Hugs, massages, being intimate, shaking hands and breastfeeding all cause
the release of oxytocin. Physical contact can increase levels whether it’s between lovers, friends,
or children and their parents.
• Essential oils — Research shows that certain essential oils, including clary sage oil, may help
balance hormones and encourage production of “the love hormone.”
• Making eye contact
• Laughing
• Giving and receiving gifts (including money)
• Altruistic behaviors, such as cooking for others and sharing meals together
• Petting a dog, cat or other pet
• Doing “loving kindness” meditations or visualization
• Telling someone you love him or her
• Listening to calming music
• Speaking to someone you trust on the phone
• Walking or exercising with someone
• Looking at photos or videos of people you care about — including via social media
What vitamins boost oxytocin levels
There are several nutrients you can add to your food intake which may prompt the release of more of
your cuddle hormone. Here are three to you get started:
• Vitamin D. The sunshine vitamin may make you more prone to a "sunny" disposition because it
supports oxytocin synthesis and may even stimulate their production. A vitamin D supplement
can help keep your levels in top shape.
• Magnesium. According to researchers, the presence of magnesium can help "sensitize" oxytocin
receptors in the brain. So making sure you have healthy levels of this mineral is a good idea. We
recommend magnesium L-threonate, a form that is readily absorbed by the brain.
• Vitamin C. Vitamin C plays a role in the function of an enzyme involved in oxytocin production,
so it is also a good supplement for its support. Some forms of vitamin C, such as liposomal
vitamin C, provide around-the-clock delivery so you'll always have this antioxidant in your
system.
Supplements, Oxytocin
What happens if you take oxytocin in supplement or spray form? Although more research is still needed
to confirm how oxytocin that administering this hormone may help people dealing with social and emotional
problems.
Conditions that oxytocin may be able to help or reduce symptoms significanltly include:
• autism or asperger’s disorder
• social anxiety
: anxiety
• schizophrenia
• depression
• decreased libido
improved intimacy symptoms, both Men and Women
Does food have oxytocin?
This hormone is not found in foods, but it does play a role in regulating appetite. Eating aphrodisiac
foods — such as chocolate, coffee, fish, avocado and some herbs — may also improve your mood and
desire for connection, leading to higher release.
Conclusion
• Oxytocin is a hormone that acts as a chemical messenger in the brain and other organs.
• Why is oxytocin called the love hormone? It plays an important role in bonding, generosity,
trust, loyalty and s*xual arousal.
• Not only do women produce this hormone to facilitate bonding, birth and breastfeeding, but it
is produced by men too. It helps with s***m quality and reproduction in both s*xes.
• How does it make you feel? It has calming properties and builds resilience against stress. It can
also help support fidelity and monogamy, empathy, and connection with an infant.
• Oxytocin supplements are still being researched for their potential benefits in helping people
with depression, anxiety, autism disorders and other mental health concerns.
• Here’s how to increase oxytocin naturally: Make physical contact with others, share and receive
gifts, get a massage, have meaningful conversations, be intimate, and basically do anything
enjoyable that involves socializing, sharing and touch.
Does chocolate increase oxytocin?
What doesn't chocolate do? The good news is that chocolate helps increase feel-good hormones,
including serotonin and dopamine, and yes, oxytocin. So, the science is squarely behind the idea that a
square of chocolate does your mind (and body) good! Chocolate also contains magnesium, which is
good for your oxytocin receptors. Enjoy responsibly!
Oxytocin and S*x
Oxytocin is responsible for s*xual arousal and or**sm. Ni**le stimulation can cause a surge of oxytocin,
which leads to lubrication and arousal in those with a va**na.
In those with a p***s, oxytocin causes er****on, increases s***m count, and moves s***m via ej*******on.
Men have high levels of oxytocin during or**sm. Nasal oxytocin medicine raises the perception of
arousal during ma********on.
Role of Oxytocin in Hormone Balance
Oxytocin plays an essential role in hormone balance because it acts as a neurotransmitter that helps
regulate other hormones like:
• Cortisol (the stress hormone)
• Estrogen (responsible for s*xual development)
• Testosterone (responsible for s*xual desire)
• Dopamine (the happiness hormone)
• Melatonin (the sleep/wake cycle regulator)
• Serotonin (the mood regulator)
• Endorphins (natural painkillers)
• Adrenaline (the fight-or-flight response).
Essentially, oxytocin helps keep all these hormones in harmony by regulating their production while also
aiding in vital functions connected to our longevity and health.
The Role of Oxytocin in Skeletal Muscle Aging
Research suggests that oxytocin is essential for muscle maintenance and regeneration — two processes
necessary for keeping your skeletal muscles healthy as you age. Low levels can lead to weakened
muscles and decreased mobility over time. That’s why it’s important to keep your levels of this vital
hormone balanced to stay fit and active throughout your golden years.
Oxytocin as a Potential Treatment for Mental Disorders
Recent studies have shown promise when exploring oxytocin as a potential therapeutic target for
mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and even schizophrenia. This is promising news, as
these disorders can be debilitating in nature and can significantly reduce your quality of life. While
further research is needed to understand the exact role, oxytocin plays in mental health regulation,
studies have indicated that it can play a part in modulating stress response, reducing fearfulness and
improving social cognition.
Oxytocin’s Role in Addiction Treatment
Oxytocin also has potential therapeutic applications when it comes to addiction treatment. In fact,
researchers are currently investigating the role of oxytocin in helping individuals overcome addiction
cravings by reducing addictive behaviors through restoring abnormal drug-induced changes in the
glutamatergic system and in its interactions with other neurotransmitters. However, the potential of
oxytocin in this area is still under investigation. Therefore, more research must be conducted before any
definitive conclusions can be made about its effectiveness as an addiction treatment option.
Does Oxytocin Decrease as We Age?
The decrease of oxytocin in relation to age generally correlates to our lifestyle, habits, and general
behaviors. However, some research shows that oxytocin levels actually increase in many older adults.
This is because, as we age, many of us spend more time volunteering, donating portions of our income
and doing activities we enjoy with people we care about. Engaging in these activities gives us a sense of
purpose and can keep our oxytocin levels balanced.
However, some see a marked decrease in oxytocin as they age due to factors such as stress, anxiety, and
depression. In addition, increased social isolation, which plagues many of our older generations, can
decrease oxytocin levels due to a lack of social interaction and physical touch. Therefore, it is crucial to
be mindful of our lifestyle, stress levels, and relationships in order to maintain balanced oxytocin levels
as we age.
How Can We Increase Oxytocin?
Foods, Nutrients, and Supplements
The simple act of eating food can stimulate the release of oxytocin. Eating foods rich in complex
carbohydrates, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B6, and zinc can help to raise your levels of this hormone.
Additionally, there are specific vitamins and nutrients that you can target through your meals and
supplements to ensure your oxytocin levels remain topped up.
Vitamin D
Commonly referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” vitamin D is essential for a healthy body and mind. Not
only is it important for strong bones and teeth, but it also plays a vital role in regulating mood and
emotion. Research has found that vitamin D directly activates and controls oxytocin production in our
bodies. Additionally, vitamin D is essential for the proper functioning of the immune system and
reducing inflammation throughout the body.
You can get vitamin D from spending time outdoors in direct sunlight or through certain foods like
fortified dairy products or fatty fish such as salmon or mackerel. It’s also available as a supplement if you
feel you may be deficient in vitamin D.
Vitamin C
Another important nutrient when it comes to increasing oxytocin levels is vitamin C. The synthesis of
oxytocin partially depends upon vitamin C, which helps stimulate the secretion of oxytocin from the
pituitary gland into your bloodstream. Not only does it play an important role in increasing oxytocin
levels, but it also helps boost immune function by fighting off infection-causing bacteria and viruses in
our bodies.
You can get vitamin C from foods like oranges, lemons, limes, kiwi fruit, grapefruit, or bell peppers, as
well as from supplements if needed.
Magnesium (Glycinate)
Magnesium is another mineral that plays an important role in maintaining optimal oxytocin levels. It
helps with the proper functioning of your nervous system, including optimal neurotransmitter activity —
the communication pathways between your brain cells. Studies have shown that magnesium increases
the action of oxytocin at its receptor sites within your body, leading to increased feelings of connection
with others around you. Additionally, magnesium is an essential electrolyte that helps with muscle and
nerve function, healthy blood pressure levels, and sleep/wake cycles.
You can get magnesium through natural sources such as whole grains like quinoa or oats, nuts like
almonds or cashews, and supplements if needed.
Hormone Replacement Therapy
Hormone replacement therapy, or HRT, is a form of medical treatment that involves the replacement of
hormones naturally produced by the body with either synthetically manufactured hormones or plant-
derived bioidentical hormones. This type of therapy is often used to treat conditions caused by an
imbalance of hormones in the body. The primary purpose of hormone replacement therapy is to
alleviate and treat symptoms of hormone-related conditions such as menopause and hypogonadism.
When looking for a Well Trained Provider whose focus is taking on in HRT for Primenopause or Menopause Look for a Certified Menopasue Hormone expert to help guide you way!
Warmly,
Susan Corbett APRN, CNM, MSCP
13547 N 199th Dr suite #32
Surprise, AZ 85379
602-777-3525
