The happiness hormone: which products contain a high amount of serotonin?

Serotonin is the happiness hormone and the main contributor to a good mood. Its levels drop sharply in stressful situations, which increases anxiety and can also lead to worry. It is very easy to boost serotonin levels with certain products; get acquainted with five of them below.

Dairy products

Dairy products rich in calcium, especially warm milk, truly alleviate stress and stabilize mood. The minerals in dairy products, including magnesium, calcium, potassium, and phosphorus, normalize the functioning of the nervous system. It is not for nothing that parents give their children a glass of warm milk before bed to calm their bodies a bit and prepare them for sleep.

Dark chocolate

Thinking of chocolate only as the best remedy for a bad mood is not correct. A piece of dark chocolate releases endorphins and increases serotonin levels. Recent studies have shown that people who consume chocolate have significantly lower levels of stress hormones than others. It is recommended to consume two pieces of dark chocolate a day.

Banana

This fruit contains tryptophan, which increases serotonin levels along with vitamin B6. Additionally, the high carbohydrates in bananas provide energy to the body and improve mood. Thus, bananas are considered an effective product for treating insomnia, anxiety, and depression.

Lentils

Like bananas, lentils are rich in carbohydrates that help produce serotonin. As a result, stress is alleviated. This product also stabilizes blood sugar levels, preventing mood swings. The iron in lentils gives energy to the body. It is recommended to consume half a cup of lentils as a side dish or add them to soups. To make it easier for the body to digest this product, it is advised to soak lentils in water for several hours before cooking.

Fish

Unsaturated fatty acids Omega 3-6 stimulate the nervous system, and one of their main sources is fish. This helps lower cortisol and adrenaline levels, significantly reducing the risk of panic attacks. Additionally, fish is rich in B vitamins, iodine, phosphorus, and vitamins A and E, which have beneficial effects on the brain and nervous system. The substances in fish stimulate the production of tryptophan, which in turn promotes the production of serotonin.

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