10 foods that will make you feel happier

In recent months, various scientific studies have confirmed that coffee and antioxidant-rich foods are your best option to prevent diseases like Alzheimer, while adopting a healthy and balanced diet will be key if you want to live between 10 and 13 years longer. All these advances emphasize that as science progresses and new discoveries are made, it becomes clearer that our diet is key to our physical well-being, but also emotional well-being. As you may already know, there are different chemical substances in our brain, which are necessary for its proper functioning and also influence our mood. If the amount of these hormones decreases, you may experience conditions such as depression and anxiety. If you want to naturally increase the production of serotonin and dopamine, here we tell you the best foods for you, but remember that these do not replace medications prescribed by doctors. You can also read: The best foods to combat stress What is serotonin?Serotonin, also known as the happiness hormone, is a neurotransmitter that stabilizes mood and may play an important role in the sleep cycle, mood, appetite, concentration, and body temperature. Information published by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine, confirms that serotonin levels in our body influence our behavior and mood. Moreover, this hormone is also linked to a greater life expectancy. Currently, it is believed that consuming foods rich in tryptophan, an amino acid, will help us increase the production of serotonin naturally and easily, as a diet lacking this substance could be related to the development of anxiety and depression. It is important to mention that a study published in 2015 indicates that more than 90% of serotonin is found in the intestine, which is why it is now known as the second brain and is related to our emotional health.What is dopamine?According to the Biomedicine Magazine of the Autonomous University of Yucatán, dopamine is a neurotransmitter that “participates in the regulation of various functions such as motor behavior, emotionality, and affectivity, as well as in neuroendocrine communication.” Additionally, dopamine, the so-called pleasure hormone, is also related to the reward system, which controls motivation, mood, sleep cycle, learning, body movements, and even cravings. When dopamine levels decline, it leads to less motivation and a lack of joy. But it's not all bad news, as there are certain foods that will help you naturally increase the production of this hormone; however, remember that this does not replace medications prescribed by doctors. You can also read: 10 natural remedies to reduce anxiety and stress10 foods that increase the production of dopamine and serotoninNow that you know all about the happiness and pleasure hormones, here are the foods that will help you naturally increase their production.5 foods rich in serotoninIf you want to have a better mood, then roll up your sleeves and include these ingredients in all your meals. 1. Eggs Protein-rich foods are essential to increase levels of tryptophan and, consequently, serotonin. It is important to include both the egg white and yolk, as the latter contains the most tryptophan. 2. Cheese Another excellent option to feel in a better mood is cheese, as they are also rich in tryptophan. 3. Pineapple Experts indicate that pineapple contains valuable amounts of serotonin, so now you have the perfect excuse to eat this fruit at all times. 4. Seeds and nuts It is believed that eating a handful of nuts or seeds daily would help improve your mood and increase serotonin production, as it contains tryptophan. 5. Tofu In addition to being an incredible option for plant-based protein, tofu is another food rich in tryptophan, as well as calcium. Don't forget that it is crucial to combine all these tryptophan-rich foods with small portions of healthy carbohydrates, such as oats, rice, and whole grain bread. On the other hand, exercising, getting sunlight, and consuming probiotics will also help elevate serotonin levels.You can also read: How to make banana bread to relieve stress 5 foods rich in dopamineIncreasing dopamine production naturally is possible, here are the foods you should eat! 1. Dairy For the body to produce dopamine, it needs tyrosine, an amino acid, so it is vital to consume foods rich in tyrosine, such as dairy products, but also beef, eggs, soy, turkey meat, and legumes. 2. Velvet bean The mucuna, a tropical legume, contains large amounts of l-dopa, the precursor to dopamine, making it an incredible option to improve your mood. Another interesting fact is that in 1992, research found that consuming velvet bean reduced Parkinson's symptoms almost immediately after ingestion. 3. Yogurt Since dopamine is produced in the intestine, it is advisable to consume foods that contain probiotics, which can be found in yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and dark chocolate. 4. Eggs Eggs, like dairy, soy, and legumes, are your best option to increase your dopamine levels. 5. Coffee If you are a coffee fan, we have very good news for you, as it also increases dopamine production. Remember that there are also other options rich in caffeine, such as matcha, chocolate, and green tea. Remember that if you experience symptoms of anxiety or depression, it is important to consult a specialist, as, although these foods have a positive effect on your mood, doctors need to evaluate your situation.