Research shows that there are seven nutrients that can make you happy. These nutrients can contribute to our happiness in the brain and strengthen the stress mechanism. Read in this article which nutrients these are and eat yourself happy and stress free!
These nutrients cause biochemical reactions that enhance the feeling of happiness:
Glutamine
The amino acid glutamine is fuel for the brain, it strengthens immunity and is a building block for GABA, a substance that calms the mind. Deficiency can increase the risk of depression, trigger anxiety, cause hyper-alertness and irritability. Glutamine is found in all types of cabbage, spinach, parsley, beets, cereals, cottage cheese, yogurt, milk and milk products.
Magnesium
Magnesium is an important mineral and building block of the bones, but it mainly helps in relaxation of the muscles and nervous system. It plays a role in the production of the lucky substances serotonin and dopamine and makes a direct contribution to our feeling of happiness. Banana is a good source of magnesium, avocado, Brussels sprouts, spinach, ginger, green cabbage, kohlrabi, parsley leaf, purslane, broccoli are sources of magnesium, as well as nuts, seeds and kernels.
Omega 3
Omega 3 fatty acids have a beneficial effect on the functioning of the brain and they play a role in the production of serotonin. Omega 3 fatty acids are found in fish such as salmon, herring, mackerel or sardines or walnuts, linseed, chia seeds.
Probiotics
Due to the connection between the intestines and brain, the intestinal flora plays an important role in our emotional life. 80% of serotonin production takes place in the intestines. Probiotic supplements or foods such as kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut or kimchi are enriched with the necessary good bacteria. In addition, it is important that you get enough fats and fiber, and that you exercise enough.
Tryptophan
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that we do not produce ourselves, but that we must obtain from food. It is a raw material for the production of serotonin. In the evening, serotonin is converted into melatonin and a deficiency has a direct negative effect on sleep quality. Tryptophan is found in protein-rich foods such as almonds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds and peanuts.
Tyrosine
Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid that we make ourselves and is involved in the production of the pleasure hormone dopamine. An action hormone that stimulates reward in the brain. Tyrosine is found in eggs, milk (products), almonds, avocado and bananas.
Vitamin B5
Vitamin B5 is considered an anti-stress vitamin. Vitamin B5 stimulates the adrenal glands and is involved in the production of cortisol, a hormone that releases energy so that we can defend ourselves more vigorously. Vitamin B5 helps wounds heal quickly, normalizes cholesterol levels, strengthens immunity and iron absorption. Vitamin B5 is mainly found in eggs, nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables, berries, tomatoes, honeydew melon, all types of cabbage and potatoes.
Source: Natural Wellbeing Foundation