Serotonin and food
Serotonin has been linked to certain foods, and its role in human physiology is a prevalent topic of scientific research for improving mental health and happiness. Serotonin is a mood-enhancing chemical found in the brain that influences mood, feelings of well-being, and appetite regulation.
Serotonin is a monoamine neurotransmitter, also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). It is produced in the central nervous system (CNS) and is primarily found in the enteric nervous system of the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract). Commonly called one of the "feel good" hormones, serotonin has been linked to certain foods, and its role in human physiology remains a popular topic of scientific research aimed at improving mental health and happiness.
Serotonin behaves differently depending on where it acts. In the brain, it works as an inhibitory neurotransmitter regulating moods, fears, anxiety, feelings of relaxation, mental focus, learning ability and clarity of thought. In the gut, it acts as a hormonal messenger regulating satiety, food cravings, digestion, nutrient adsorption and peristalsis. Serotonin deficiency has been linked to severe mental illnesses including depression, anxiety, intermittent explosive disorder, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, autism and ADHD.
Because the body does not produce serotonin naturally, it is synthesized through the consumption of amino acids (l-tryptophan). Foods associated with supporting this pathway include eggs, cheese, fish, nuts and seeds, pineapple, tofu, green leafy vegetables, banana and pepper. On the other side, sugary snacks, food with high levels of trans-fat and highly-processed foods, when consumed on a regular basis, may reduce the amount of tryptophan and B vitamins in the diet, as well as the ability to produce serotonin when needed.