This 6-month trial in young, healthy adults found that daily consumption of roasted peanuts or peanut butter improved depression and anxiety scores and that peanut butter enhanced memory functions. This Study Summary was published on November 2 2021.
Peanut butter also provides many micronutrients and is a good source of vitamin E. Additionally, it contains the amino acid tryptophan, which the body needs to make serotonin and melatonin . Both melatonin and serotonin help regulate the sleep-wake cycle and promote quality sleep .
Peanut butter, a nutrient-dense food, contains phytonutrients, such as beta-sitosterol. The compound Beta-sitosterol may be of value as an antidepressant. The compound Beta-sitosterol works to help reduce feelings of anxiety, possibly by stabilizing cortisol, a hormone released during times of stress.
It may help develop healthier muscles and nerves
Peanut butter is high in magnesium, which powers more than 300 biochemical reactions in your body. It also assists in maintaining a healthy nervous system, temperature regulation, and detoxification.
Peanut contains a substance that increases serotonin levels that is a major cause of depression. Tryptophan in peanuts increases the release of this chemical and thus helps you fight depression.
The protein content in peanut butter is a source of tryptophan, which increases serotonin levels to help one relax.
Vitamins B9 and B12 are both thought to treat symptoms of anxiety. Folic acid has many uses in the body, and B9 deficiency has been linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression.
Peanut butter has beta-sitosterol, which helps fight the effect of stress. So, for as long as you are stressed, you will always crave food, and more specifically, comforting foods such as peanut butter.
Avoid all peanut products if you have a peanut allergy. Peanut butter contains a high amount of calories per serving. Make sure to moderate your portions to avoid unwanted weight gain.
When it comes to choosing the right healthy foods for your brain, peanuts and peanut butter are a nutritious option: they can help with improving memory, cognitive function and concentration, they can give your mood a boost, and they can even support the prevention of Alzheimer's disease.
Eat foods rich in complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains — for example, oatmeal, quinoa, whole-grain breads and whole-grain cereals. Steer clear of foods that contain simple carbohydrates, such as sugary foods and drinks. Drink plenty of water. Even mild dehydration can affect your mood.
Medical research has linked magnesium to reduced anxiety. Magnesium helps you to relax by stimulating the production of melatonin and serotonin which boost your mood and help you sleep. Magnesium also reduces the production of cytokines and cortisol, which lead to increased inflammation and stress.
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.
Besides the homey warmth of this true comfort food, milk has loads of B vitamins that reduce anxiety and improve mood. For instance, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) raises serotonin levels to perk you up.
The most prominent of anti-anxiety drugs for the purpose of immediate relief are those known as benzodiazepines; among them are alprazolam (Xanax), clonazepam (Klonopin), chlordiazepoxide (Librium), diazepam (Valium), and lorazepam (Ativan).
Regular exercise is known to increase serotonin levels. Thirty minutes of aerobic exercise five times a week plus two strength-training sessions per week can improve mood disorders and heart health.
Although peanut butter is a calorie-dense food, a little goes a long way in providing a great-tasting energy boost. Its healthy fats, protein, and fiber help stave off hunger and keep blood sugar levels stable.
Walnuts contain essential omega-3 fatty acids, and other polyphenols that have been shown to help prevent memory loss. Walnuts are also one of the richest dietary sources of serotonin, a chemical in your brain that helps create calm and happiness, as well as improve your mood.