Tryptophan is recognized as the “happiness hormone,” facilitating the augmentation of serotonin and melatonin levels, thereby contributing to improved sleep quality and emotional well-being. Apart from the oral route, individuals looking to supplement tryptophan can also obtain it by consuming certain foods.
Los Angeles, CA (Merxwire) – Do you find life to be joyful? Or is it rather disheartening? According to the World Health Organization (WHO) report, depression is one of the world’s three major diseases and the main cause of human disability. Of the 7.3 billion people in the world, more than 350 million people suffer from depression. More and more people think they are unhappy, making positive psychology, which was initially less concerned by people, also become popular.
From a biological point of view, depression is caused by too low “Serotonin,” which causes depression, insomnia, and memory decline. Excessive stress, lack of sleep, or malnutrition can affect the secretion of serotonin. Some doctors give patients oral tryptophan to promote the increase of serotonin, but in addition to prescription, tryptophan also can be taken in food.
Why take tryptophan? Studies have shown that tryptophan can slow down negative emotions and help sleep. Tryptophan, also known as the “happiness hormone,” is an essential amino acid for the human body, promoting the production of serotonin and melatonin. Melatonin helps to fall asleep and improve sleep quality; serotonin is related to concentration, energy, and feelings of happiness.
Foods containing high tryptophan:
1. Whole grains: oats, wheat germ, buckwheat
2. Nuts: sesame, walnuts, cashews, peanuts, sunflower seeds
3. Beans: black soybeans, edamame, chickpeas, natto, tofu, soy milk
4. Dairy products: fresh milk, yogurt, cheese
5. Algae: seaweed, hair vegetable, long thread moss
In addition, eggs, honey, and chocolate are also foods that contain tryptophan! Maybe this is why honey and chocolate have always been popular gifts.
When it comes to the “happiness hormone,” most people also think of “Dopamine.” Dopamine is one of the neurotransmitters which can make people feel pleasant and happy. When we are with the people we like or do things we are interested in, we will promote dopamine secretion. When you are bored with life, find something you are interested in doing and increase your happiness hormone!
Boosting dopamine involves a blend of lifestyle choices: exercise for motivation, nutrient-rich diets, positive social interactions, quality sleep, mindfulness practices, and goal-setting. Regular physical activity emerges as a prime catalyst, igniting dopamine release and fostering motivation. Complementing this, a nutrient-rich diet, affluent in Tryptophan, fuels dopamine production.
If you have relatives and friends who are depressed and pessimistic, company and listening are the best support at this time! If they have thoughts or behaviors of attempting suicide, it means that they are sending out a “very painful” signal for help. They need more care at this time, and they need to seek professional help; let us give love and accompany them through difficult times.
