Effects of Physical Exercise on Circulating Serotonin Levels: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Current evidence, derived exclusively from female participants, does not support a significant effect of PE on serum or plasma serotonin levels. The substantial heterogeneity among studies and the generally moderate methodological quality limit the strength of the conclusions and generalizability of the conclusions. Further, high-quality randomized controlled trials with standardized measurement protocols are needed to clarify the influence of exercise on circulating serotonin levels.