The brain communicates by chemical substances passed from one nerve cell to the next. These chemicals, called neurotransmitters, are made in the brain from the food we eat. The neurotransmitters that are most sensitive to diet and influential in affecting the mood are serotonin & dopamine.
Serotonin is a calming and relaxing chemical. Also known as the happiness hormone, it regulates moods, memory, ability to learn, heart, muscles, and the endocrine system. It is synthesized by an amino acid called tryptophan.
Dopamine and norepinephrine are alertness chemicals. When they are produced we think and react more quickly, we feel more motivated, we are more attentive and overall, we are more mentally energetic. Food is the best source of dopamine-producing amino acids such as tyrosine.
Include these foods in your diets to stay more calm and happy-
Dopamine Food Sources
- Tofu
- Yogurt
- Almonds
- Oats
- Fish
- Watermelon
- Ragi
- Sprouts
Serotonin Rich foods
- Sunflower seeds
- Eggs
- Dark chocolate
- Banana
- Quinoa
- Garlic
- Pumpkin seeds
- Buckwheat
Foods rich in Dopamine and Serotonin are good for students, people facing neural problems.