List of Healthy Foods that Raise Serotonin Levels

List of Healthy Foods That Raise Serotonin Levels

Many foods boost serotonin levels naturally and can improve mood.

Serotonin acts as a neurotransmitter, relaying signals from one area of the brain to another. Researchers believe that an imbalance in serotonin levels can cause depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic anxiety disorder and anger management issues. While certain antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications can raise serotonin levels in the brain -- and may well be essential for your ability to cope and function -- it's useful to recognize that foods containing certain vitamins and minerals can also give this important chemical a boost.

Foods Rich in Vitamin B Complex

Low levels of B vitamins, often referred to as "anti-stress" vitamins, may affect mood, anxiety and depression levels, cognitive function and memory, Natural News reported in the article, "Mood Food: Boost Serotonin Levels With Natural Treatments." The brain needs B vitamins to make neurotransmitters with a calming effect and serotonin. Cereals, whole grains, potatoes, pork, liver, kidney beans, chicken, wheat germ, bananas, peanuts, eggs, mushrooms, watermelon, grapefruit, shellfish and dairy products are all excellent sources of B vitamins.

Foods Rich in Essential Fatty Acids

Essential fatty acids make up every cell membrane and are vital for the brain's proper functioning, says Dr. Frank Sacks, professor of Cardiovascular Disease and Prevention at the Harvard School of Public Health. ALA -- alpha-linolenic acid -- is found in vegetable oils like canola and soybean, flaxseed and walnuts. Brussels sprouts, kale, spinach and salad greens are also rich sources of ALA. EPA, eicosapentaenoic acid, and DHA, docosahexanoic acid, can be found in fatty fish like salmon.

Foods Rich in L-Theanine

L-Theanine is an amino acid commonly found in green tea, which is believed to increase alpha waves in the brain, creating a feeling of relaxation, while maintaining mental alertness, Natural News wrote. It can improve the quality of your sleep -- without causing daytime drowsiness, a 2008 study in the "Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition" reported. Evidence from EEG readings showed that L-Theanine had a direct effect on the brain and relaxed the mind of study participants. Similarly, a 2010 study published in "Nutritional Neuroscience" found that a combination of L-Theanine and caffeine may improve alertness, while increasing the levels of serotonin and GABA, another calming neurotransmitter.

Foods Rich in Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential mineral known to relax muscles and nerves, said Natural News. It increases energy levels and activates the B vitamins necessary for serotonin production. Almonds, spinach, cashews, soy milk, black beans, peanut butter, whole-wheat bread, avocado, potatoes baked with skin, cooked brown rice, raisins, apples and raw carrots are great sources of magnesium, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements.