Do you often feel tired, stressed or in a low mood? The key to high morale is not found in pastries, but rather in certain foods rich in tryptophan, an essential amino acid. A Spanish psychiatrist, Fernando Mora, shared on TikTok his top 3 foods to favor to naturally boost your mental well-being.
Why is tryptophan so important?
Tryptophan plays a key role in the production of serotonin, often nicknamed “the happy hormone”, and melatonin, which regulates our sleep. Without sufficient intake, you may experience low morale and sleep problems. However, our body cannot produce it alone: we must therefore get it from food.
The top 3 foods rich in tryptophan according to a psychiatrist
Poultry (turkey and chicken)
These meats contain around 250 mg of tryptophan per 100 g. They are also rich in protein, ideal for maintaining good energy throughout the day.
Cheddar cheese
With 300 mg of tryptophan per 100 g, this cheese is not only an excellent source of this amino acid, but also of calcium, essential for bone and nervous system health.
Pumpkin seeds (especially pumpkin)
It is the star food of the ranking, with more than 500 mg of tryptophan per 100 g! They are also full of magnesium and zinc, two minerals that promote healthy brain function and reduce stress.
Foods to try for high morale
“Foods rich in tryptophan are not a substitute for medical treatment, but they can help improve mood“, emphasizes Dr. Mora. So why not include them in your meals and see the effect on your well-being?