The nerve cells produce a chemical for transporting messages among themselves. This chemical is called serotonin and it is thought to be associated with mood regulation and it also plays a crucial role in our mental health. Serotonin keeps our anxiety in check and helps in boosting our mood and expressing the feeling of happiness. Thus “happy” chemical is the other fitting name for serotonin. As serotonin is synthesized from Tryptophan, an amino acid, it is best to consume tryptophan-rich foods to increase the serotonin levels in our body naturally. Below listed are 20 delicious food items that can boost serotonin levels.
1.Eggs
Being one of the topmost nutritious foods, eggs are a part of the preferred diet of all athletes. As they are rich in proteins, eggs help increase the Tryptophan levels in our bodies. Significantly the egg yolk must be consumed as it contains abundant amounts of tryptophan, which helps improve serotonin levels. But do keep in mind to eat eggs by boiling or poaching them and save your body from the extra fats gained from a fried or scrambled egg.
2.Cheese
This is a dream come true for cheese lovers, as it adds one more item to the list of benefits of consuming cheese. Cheese is believed to be a great source of serotonin. One of the best ways to consume cheese is by eating Mac and Cheese, as it combines cheese with milk and eggs – which are also excellent sources of serotonin.
3.Pineapple
Pineapple is a tropical delight that contains considerable amount of Tryptophan which alternatively boosts serotonin production in our body and is recommended for treating anxiety and depression. This fine fruit is best consumed fresh in the scalding heat of the tropics.
4.Tofu
Soy products such as tofu are an excellent source of Tryptophan and are popular among vegetarians and vegans as a substitute for many proteins. Tofu can be consumed by replacing protein in pretty much any recipe.
5.Salmon
This fatty fish is an excellent source of Tryptophan and helps boost serotonin levels. Consuming it twice weekly is enough to provide the required amount of tryptophan. Salmon can be consumed in various ways by experimenting with different recipes.
6.Tuna
Tuna is another fatty fish that influences the level of serotonin in our body by being a rich source of the amino acid Tryptophan.
7.Nuts
Nuts contain the amino acid Tryptophan, which is responsible for producing serotonin. Various nuts, such as cashews, almonds, walnuts, peanuts, etc., are good sources of serotonin which help reduce depression and anxiety.
8.Seeds
Tryptophan, the precursor of serotonin, is found in many seeds. Consuming sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, chia seeds, etc. are an excellent way of increasing serotonin levels in your body.
9.Turkey
Poultry such as chicken and turkey which contain high amounts of Tryptophan, help` in increasing levels of serotonin. Thus, making this Thanksgiving treat beneficial for our health.
10.Spinach
Most varieties of green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, are a rich source of tryptophan and work well to improve serotonin levels in our bodies. These greens can be consumed by combining them in different recipes or eating them as salads.
11.Sauerkraut
This fermented dish made of raw cabbage is one of the famous dishes of Germany and helps in the production of serotonin by balancing the bacteria in your gut.
12.Yogurt
Yogurt is yet another fermented food that can help lighten your mood, as the probiotics present in it boost the serotonin levels in your body.
13.Soy Milk
Soy milk is an excellent substitute for regular milk for people who are lactose intolerant or vegans. It is a fantastic way to intake Tryptophan naturally to increase serotonin production.
14.Banana
These sweet and mushy fruits of the tropics contain serotonin, and their consumption helps increase serotonin levels in our bodies.
15.Kiwi
These berry fruits with a unique flavor are among the fruits which boost serotonin levels and help in improving your mood.
16.Kimchi
It is a traditional Korean side-dish made of salted and fermented vegetables. This fermentation procedure makes kimchi a dish that increases Tryptophan in our body and thereby boosts serotonin levels.
17.Kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented, sweetened black tea drink consumed for its various health benefits, including the boost in serotonin levels, which helps lift your mood and reduce anxiety.
18.Sweet Potato
Sweet potatoes are great mood boosters and are essential in the production of serotonin which enhances mood. They can be consumed on their own or can be combined into different recipes.
19.Pulses
Various pulses are found to be rich sources of serotonin production in the body, thus helping in the prevention of depression and anxiety.
20.Plum
These fresh fruits are a good source of Tryptophan which boosts serotonin levels in the body. Plums can be eaten fresh or various preparations such as jams or wines can be made from them.
