Another popular myth that is widespread on the Internet is that bananas improve mood because of their serotonin content. Although it is true that bananas contain serotonin, it does not cross the blood–brain barrier.
Bananas. The only fruit on this list, bananas contain an amino acid called tryptophan. Your body uses tryptophan to produce 5-HTP, the compound that makes serotonin and melatonin, two mood and sleep-regulating neurotransmitters.
Banana. Have you ever imagined your comfort food to be the source of happiness? Yes, eating bananas can make you feel better as it is a rich source of serotonin. This is because bananas affect tryptophan, an amino acid aiding in the creation of serotonin.
The following fruits had a high serotonin concentration (mean +/- SEM) expressed in micrograms/g weight: plantain 30.3 +/- 7.5; pineapple 17.0 +/- 5.1; banana 15.0 +/- 2.4; Kiwi fruit 5.8 +/- 0.9; plums 4.7 +/- 0.8; and tomatoes 3.2 +/- 0.6.
Bananas. Bananas are a tasty and convenient snack, and bananas help depression. That's because the fruit contains serotonin, an essential neurotransmitter that balances mood and daily functioning. Most antidepressants work to boost serotonin levels in the brain.
Bananas contain tryptophan, a serotonin precursor. Because it's a natural antidepressant and may alleviate anxiety and sleeplessness, and other mood concerns, including exhaustion, irritability, agitation, rage, and aggressiveness, serotonin is perhaps the most essential brain chemical.
The B-vitamins in bananas, like folate and vitamin B6, are key to the production of serotonin, which can help improve your mood and reduce anxiety. For an extra stress-busting boost, top bananas with almond, peanut, or cashew butter.
Certain drugs and substances such as caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, NutraSweet, antidepressants, and some cholesterol-lowering medications deplete serotonin and other neurotransmitter levels. Hormone changes cause low levels of serotonin and neurotransmitter imbalances.
Foods high in trans fats: Eating foods high in trans fats like potato chips, pizza, and fast food are linked to decreasing serotonin levels. These foods affect our mental health by causing inflammation that could prevent the production of Omega-3 fatty acids that improve brain function and mental health.
Drinks like green tea and probiotics help to boost serotonin. Other foods containing Vitamin D are also good because Vitamin D activates tryptophan, which leads to increases in serotonin levels. Good sources of Vitamin D foods include cod liver oil, fortified orange juice, and many types of yogurt.
Avocado for whole-body benefits
They also contain a significant amount of folate, or vitamin B9, which assists your brain in the creation of serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. Avocados are also amazing for your heart health, lowering levels of bad cholesterol and keeping high blood pressure at bay.
This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood, and generally make you feel happier.
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and folate, which helps your body to produce mood-boosting serotonin.
Secondly, as potatoes have a high carbohydrate content, they can help increase serotonin levels in the brain, a neurotransmitter linked to well-being and happiness. Eating tubers can therefore help improve our mood and encourage a feeling of happiness.
Regular exercise for at least 30 minutes each day improves one's overall mood. Research has revealed that long-term cardiovascular exercise boosts serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin can lower hostility and symptoms of depression. It also encourages agreeableness.
The serotonin test measures the level of serotonin in the blood. Blood is drawn from a vein (venipuncture), usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. Preparation may vary depending on the specific test.
B12 acts as a cofactor in synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, thus B12 deficiency affects mood, emotions and sleeping and can lead to psychiatric disorders.
Foods that may boost serotonin levels include turkey, chicken, milk, canned tuna, peanuts, oats, bananas, and apples. Serotonin is important for your mental health and sense of well-being, and it's also important for proper gut function.
Honey can cause a rise in insulin and release serotonin — a neurotransmitter that improves mood and happiness. The body then converts serotonin into melatonin, a chemical compound that regulates the length and the quality of sleep.
You can also limit foods that can negatively affect serotonin levels. Alcohol, aspartame, caffeine, trans fat, and fructose can be limited or eliminated from your diet to support healthy serotonin levels.
Blueberries
When we're anxious and stressed, our bodies crave vitamin C to help repair and protect our cells, and blueberries are packed full of it. Small but mighty, blueberries are bursting with antioxidants and vitamin C that have been shown to provide anxiety relief.
Carbohydrates are thought to increase the amount of serotonin in your brain, which has a calming effect. Eat foods rich in complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains — for example, oatmeal, quinoa, whole-grain breads and whole-grain cereals.
And as luck would have it, I got accepted into the class! So next time you've got a performance or are about to take an exam, make sure you're eating TWO bananas about 30 minutes beforehand. Trust me, you won't be disappointed and your anxiety levels will thank you.