As much as 2.1 billion people or around 30% of the world’s population are obese. While obesity is clearly detectable, many people suffering from depression go unnoticed, either because they are not aware of it themselves, or because they are too afraid to express their problem.
However, there is one chemical in the brain that can help you treat both the problems and that is the chemical known as “Serotonin.”
Serotonin is a ‘feel-good’ chemical that not only switches off your appetite but also helps you feel good. In this way, when the brain releases serotonin, it helps you avoid eating unnecessary food and stops you eating before you over-eat. This chemical also helps you fight depression.
There are several medicines available these days to help fight the problems, but one must remember that these medicines have severe side effects. As such, opting for natural methods to increase serotonin in your body is a wise decision to avoid further problems in the future.
What is Serotonin?
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that carries out several functions of the body and mind. It relays signals between the nerve cells and helps carry information between the brain and the body. It creates a calming effect on the mind and the body.
You will be able to recollect moments when you had butterflies in your stomach, or a sinking gut feeling - these are nothing but the serotonin’s way of talking to you! It helps train your brain so that you learn which foods to avoid and consume.
Serotonin is an extremely important chemical because it affects your memory, aggression, sexual desire, muscles, mood, the ability to learn, appetite, arousal, and sleep, to name a few. These activities are imperative when it comes to living a healthy and happy life, and that is precisely what serotonin helps you achieve.
Food Rich in Serotonin
There are a few foods that are known to improve serotonin levels in the body such as walnuts, pineapple, bananas, and tomatoes. However, the list is rather short and you need to keep in mind that the serotonin that is produced by them cannot actually reach your brain as the security forces of the brain don’t allow that to happen.
Are you eating items rich in serotonin but not getting the results?
One option that you do have is to consume foods that is rich in Tryptophan that is known to be a precursor to serotonin. These items include beets, bananas, soy, nuts, oats, seafood, meats, and eggs. Typically, foods that have high protein content tend to have good levels of Tryptophan.
Another option is to increase the proportion of carbs in your daily meal, as they are known to boost serotonin levels in the body. Low carb diets may have gained popularity, but it has increased the number of people suffering from depression. So you should incorporate rice, pasta, and bread in your diet, and you should be able to see the results yourself.
However, try to stay away from caffeine, alcohol, and sodas that stop your body from creating this amazing chemical called serotonin! Stay happy and healthy!
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