Foods that boost happy hormones for vegans
Foods that boost happy hormones for vegans
It has been shown that a lack of protein in the diet can cause low moods and depression. It is because protein (especially of animal origin such as meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and cheese) contain amino acids tryptophan, phenylalanine and tyrosine, which play a crucial role in the production of “happy hormones” – serotonin and dopamine. It can cause a problem for vegans. Here is a list of these amino acids that can be found in the vegan food sources:
Pasta can be a good alternative for vegans because it’s not only healthy carbohydrates, which fill us up while releasing energy slowly, but also a decent source of protein. A 100-gram serving of whole-wheat pasta contains 5g of protein, which is 10% of Daily Value. Moreover, carbohydrates are needed for tryptophan absorption in the intestine.
Red bell pepper is an excellent source of vitamin C that stimulate the oxytocin production – 100g contain 80mg of vitamin C which is almost 100% of daily intake (daily value). It has great amounts of B vitamins, vitamin E, and folates. At the same time it has 4.7g of natural fast and slow sugars for energy. Everything that is needed for the synthesis of sex hormones and hormones of happiness you can find in one magic thing.
Bananas are rich in potassium that is a vital mineral for nerve function. The natural sugars in bananas are of two types: simple sugars that released quickly into the bloodstream, making you feel energetic; and starchy carbohydrate, which sustains your good mood by releasing the energy slowly. If you eat ripe bananas, you may be getting more tyrosine. Some sources have suggested that the “riper” the banana, the greater the tyrosine contents.
These are a rich source of vitamin C, which helps in the production of oxytocin. They are also a good source of potassium, which plays an important role in the generation of nerve impulses. Sweet enough from their own simple sugar, strawberries do not contain complex carbohydrate like starch, but they do contain some fibre and flavonoids that change our mood for the better.
Red beets deserve your special attention. They contain “betaine” which has been suggested to regulate levels of neurotransmitters that improve your mood. Beets also contain tyrosine, so they are a double whammy of raising dopamine.
Raw oats, brown rice, millet, bulgur, quinoa, and pearled barley contain about 160mg of tyrosine per 100g which is about 20% of daily intake.
274mg of tyrosine per 100g or (31% DV) have been found in beans and lentils.
This seaweed is rich in tyrosine
Grapes are high in oxytocin-producing vitamin C and full of natural sugar for energy
Apples contain quercetin, to prevent degeneration of neurons and boost dopamine
Sweet potatoes are complex carbohydrates that tend to increase serotonin levels, which, in turn, have a calming effect on the human body.
Green tea contains polyphenols, good for brain and heart function, as well as dopamine production
