Serotonin is a crucial chemical (neurotransmitter) for improving mood and decreasing anxiety. Researchers have found a clear connection between low serotonin levels and increases in anxiety, depression and other mental health challenges
Not only fundamental for regulating anxiety and mood, serotonin is also important for:
- Memory & sleep – melatonin production
- Libido
- Gastro motility / bowel movements
- Wound healing & bone health
The remaining 5% of serotonin is produced in the brain. This is why what you consume (eat, drink, breath and topically apply / wash your clothes in) has a direct influence on your Mental Health.
Cofactors required for the body to adequately synthesise serotonin include:
- Tryptophan
- Magnesium
- Omega 3
- Vitamin D & Vitamin C
- B3, B6, B12 & folate
- Calcium, iron & zinc
Deficiencies in ANY of these can result in decreased serotonin production.
Tryptophan (amino acid) found in some protein-rich foods like: turkey, chicken, salmon, tofu, eggs, nuts & seeds.
Cofactor nutrients can be found in: grass fed beef, Dark Green Leafy Veg (DGLV), eggs, tofu, cashews, chickpeas, cauliflower, peppers, kale, kiwi, lamb, oranges, parsley, pumpkin seeds and spinach (to name a few!)
Keep an eye out on my next post which will talk about the Gut and serotonin production in more detail.