Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the brain that controls mood and temperature. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter targeted during mood disorder treatment such as depression, but patients can increase serotonin levels through their diet. Foods high in carbohydrates help increase the amount of serotonin. Sugars, breads and pastas help increase serotonin, and some are a healthful part of the diet.
Sweets
A sugar rush is more than just a burst of energy. People who eat sweets also increase serotonin and improve their mood. Unfortunately, sugar is quickly metabolized by the body and used for energy. This energy runs out, and the person who consumed the sugar feels sluggish. Sweets should also be eaten in moderation. Too many sweets are stored as fat when unused by the body.
Breads and Pastas
Breads and pastas are filled with carbohydrates. White breads and pastas have the highest doses, but some dieters prefer whole grains. Even whole grain breads and pastas have some form of carbohydrates so they can increase the amount of serotonin in the brain. Pastas are also a common part of the diet. White pasta is more common in restaurants, but some grocery store products sell whole grain versions of the food source. These pastas are similar to whole grains in that they contain smaller portions of carbohydrates than the white counterparts.
Legumes and Beans
Legumes are a variety of different carbohydrate sources. Dried fruit, soybeans and peas fall under the umbrella of legumes. These are starchy vegetables and other foods that are a healthful part of a balanced diet, but they also contain large amounts of sugars, increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Beans are used as a "good" carbohydrate in diets where patients are trying to lose weight. These products also help in regularity. Adding beans to salads, side dishes and other recipes help improve serotonin levels.
Member Comments