If You Want To Up Your Mood Naturally, Try One Of These Serotonin-Boosting Foods
Happiness loading.
by Natalia Lusinski
Shutterstock
You’ve probably heard about serotonin, the feel-good hormone that plays a pivotal role in how our body functions. It can impact mood, digestion, sleep — you name it. While some people take medication to increase their serotonin levels (which is a fine solution for some), certain foods can help, too.Shutterstock
If you’re a fan of cheese (who isn’t, right?), good news: It can boost your serotonin levels. This is because it contains the amino acid tryptophan. So feel free to indulge in that charcuterie board!Shutterstock
Turkey, too, contains tryptophan, and many people attribute this to getting sleepy after eating their Thanksgiving turkey. But when the tryptophan first enters your brain, it converts to serotonin (before turning into melatonin, which is what makes you sleepy).Shutterstock
If you’re a plant-eater and don’t eat turkey, you’re in luck, as tofu is a great source of tryptophan, too — which will increase serotonin production and help elevate your mood.Shutterstock
Spinach, as well as other dark green, leafy veggies, also contains tryptophan and can boost your mood. Plus, the iron in spinach is good for you, too, and produces healthy red blood cells, which helps up your energy levels.Shutterstock
Eggs, too, contain the amino acid tryptophan. However, many experts recommend boiling or poaching your eggs — vs. frying them — in order to keep them on the healthier side. Plus, they’re easy to add to a piece of toast or onto your salad.Shutterstock
Research has found that nuts and seeds are also great sources of serotonin-boosting foods. You can basically choose the ones you prefer, including almonds, cashews, walnuts, and peanuts. Seeds, like pumpkin, sunflower, and sesame, can also help up your mood.Peter Dazeley/Photodisc/Getty Images
Pineapple is another food to consume if you want to feel better mentally (although a piña colada probably won’t cut it!). Pineapple also contains bromelain, which is a protein known for its anti-inflammatory properties. So it’s a win-win!Maryna Terletska/Moment/Getty Images