Serotonin is a great way to naturally boost the immune system and is located in superfoods that boost mental moods and physical health. Healthy sleeping patterns also increase with serotonin. People with depression have been found to have low levels of serotonin. Learn more about how to boost overall wellbeing by eating superfoods which contain the right chemical mixture to boost serotonin naturally.
Food-Mood Connection
Carbohydrates (carbs) cause the body to release more insulin which promotes amino acid absorption in the blood. Serotonin is not found in foods but tryptophan is and foods high in protein, iron, riboflavin and vitamin B6 have high levels of amino acids. Boosting serotonin levels is not as simple as eating a ‘high tryptophan’ diet. Comfort foods, notoriously high in carbs, can help boost serotonin levels along with supplements (under advisement of a treating physician).
Boost Serotonin
The following foods are known to have the right ingredients and vitamins which can naturally boost serotonin levels. Learn more about the superfood connection to elevated serotonin levels and mood.
Eggs
Protein in eggs can have a significant boost to blood plasma levels of tryptophan. Eating baked eggs, a spinach and mushroom frittata with yolks or other cooked eggs can boost protein levels.
Cheese
Cheese is a great source of tryptophan. Mac and cheese is one dish which combines cheese, eggs and milk, all excellent sources of tryptophan.
Pineapples
Pineapples are a major sources of bromelain, a protein which can help reduce side effects of chemotherapy as well as suppress coughing. Pineapples and coconuts with chicken are part of a protein rich combo.
Tofu
Soy products are rich sources of tryptophan and can be substituted for other proteins. Eat tofu with veggies for a major health boost.
Salmon
Salmon is rich in tryptophan and can be paired with baked veggies such as asparagus, zucchini or combined to make a salmon frittata (which also contains eggs and milk).
Nuts and Seeds
All nuts and seeds contain tryptophan. Eating just a handful of nuts a day can lower the risk for cancer, heart disease and respiratory problems. Nuts are also a good source of fiber, vitamins and antioxidants.
Turkey
Thanksgiving is a great time to eat lots of turkey, stuffed to the gills with tryptophan. An Asian turkey rice bowl or other protein rich recipe can provide a huge boost to serotonin levels.
Non Food Alternatives
Food and supplements are not the only way to boost serotonin levels. Exercise is a great way to overcome depressive symptoms and boost adrenaline and serotonin levels. Sunshine from being outside is optimal but light therapy can support increased levels of serotonin when being outside is not possible. Light exercise such as walking and sleeping better can be helpful in addition to positive thinking and meditation which boost serotonin levels and a sense of peace.
Hired Power believes in the power of healthy nutrition and diet in combination with the right treatment opportunities to support a full recovery from addiction. Contact us to find out how we can help you get on the path to wellness in recovery.
