Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that affects mood. When norepinephrine deficits occur, depression may develop. The University of Washington states that the precursor of norepinephrine is tyrosine, which can be found in different foods. Ingesting foods with tyrosine can increase norepinephrine production in the person's brain; not eating enough of these foods can hinder norepinephrine formation.
Meat and Fish
The University of Washington states that certain types of meat and fish contain tyrosine. The Nutritional Supplements Health Guide adds that chicken and pork are also tyrosine-rich food. Nutrition Data lists the fish with the highest tyrosine content include shrimp (1620 mg); tuna (1484 mg); cod (1476 mg); haddock (1467 mg); pollock (1426 mg); lobster (1392 mg); and snapper (1388 mg). Pork roast has 1606 mg of tyrosine, and chicken has 1500 mg, according to Nutrition Data; however, turkey has an even higher content, with 1771 mg.
Dairy Products
Dairy products also contain a significant amount of tyrosine. The University of Washington notes that milk is a source, and the Nutritional Supplements Health Guide adds that cheese and yogurt are also good. Nutrition Data states that cottage cheese has 1833 mg; cream cheese,1528 mg; low fat cheddar cheese, 1248 mg; parmesan cheese, 1117 mg; provolone cheese, 1109 mg; and mozzarella cheese, 1105 mg. Plain yogurt has 1032 mg and dry nonfat milk has 968 mg.
Grains
The Nutritional Supplements Health Guide states that wheat and oats both are sources of tyrosine; however, Nutrition Data does not list information on any grain products.
Fruits, Vegetables and Nuts
Fruits, vegetables and nuts are also sources of tyrosine. The University of Washington lists legumes, like beans, and the Nutritional Supplements Health adds lima beans, avocados, almonds, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds and bananas. Nutrition Data notes that soy protein has 2008 mg; tofu, 1321 mg; peanut flour, 1298 mg; seaweed, 2046 mg; spinach, 1483 mg; and beans, 1006 mg.
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