Brain Chemistry May Spur Unhealthy Behaviors
(HealthDayNews, 3/3/06)

Dr. Matthew F. Muldoon of the University of Pittsburgh, and colleagues, studied 244 adults, and found that low serotonin activity in their brains increased the risk of thickening of the carotid artery. Previous studies had connected serotonin, a chemical that carries messages between neurons, with mood, appetite and blood pressure regulation. Now Muldoon’s team raises the possibility that subnormal serotonin levels may contribute to atherosclerosis by promoting unhealthy lifestyle choices—like inactivity, smoking and overeating. These findings suggest that the link between neurochemistry, human behavior and cardiovascular problems mandates a multi-pronged approach to treating cardiovascular problems.

(University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, news release, March 3, 2006)