What is it about Thanksgiving that makes us feel calm and relaxed despite the hustle and bustle of the start of the holidays? Is it the bounty of wonderful foods, the love of friends and family, the attitude of thankfulness for all that we have in life? Maybe. But it's more likely the Tryptophan.
Tryptophan is an amino acid that the body uses to make Serotonin - that feel good chemical. Studies show that Serotonin levels decrease as we age and contribute to mood and behavior problems as well as depression in the elderly especially those on restricted diets.
Tryptophan is most abundant in turkey, fish, fowl, beans, diary, nuts and tofu. However, these high protein packed foods can't do it on their own and needs the often times shunned carbohydrate, which Tryptophan has to have to break the blood/brain barrier. So enjoy that extra spoonful of stuffing.
Even with all the high in sugar pies and cookies we eat during the holidays, Tryptophan does double duty by keeping our blood sugar level stable. That traditional after Thanksgiving dinner nap isn't from the amount of food we eat but from the Tryptophan that sends us into sweet dreams. Tryptophan is known as nature's Prozac without any of the side effects.
Serotonin Can Anti-Age Your Belly
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter; meaning it acts as a messenger to different areas in the brain. Eighty to ninety percent of the Serotonin in our bodies is in our gastrointestinal tract. You can give thanks to Serotonin for those gut feelings you get. But a lack of Serotonin may be responsible for too much gut. A decrease in the chemical sends a primal message to the brain that food is in short supply. The hunt and gather instinct kicks in and you find yourself standing in front of the refrigerator at 2:00 in the morning.
Serotonin Can Anti-Age Your Attitude
Scientist still don't know why serotonin lifts depression, but endless studies show low levels of Serotonin are present with depression, anxiety, sleep disturbances and mental illnesses.
Other typical symptoms of Serotonin deficiencies include:
| Anger | Anxiety | Chronic fatigue |
| Chronic pain | Chronic worrying | Food cravings, especially sugar |
| Impatience | Insomnia | Irritability |
| Low self-esteem | Negative attitude | Obsessive compulsive tendency |
| Panic attacks | Phobias | Rambling and repetitive thoughts |
| Sudden and explosive rage | Unrealistic fears | Violent acts |
Tryptophan Solution
If you identify with some of the above symptoms, check and adjust your diet. If you've cut out carbs to lose weight, the plan may have backfired. Putting the turkey back between two slices of bread or eating crackers with the chili will not only take the edge off your nerves but put an end to 2:00 a.m. cravings.
If you identified with several of the above symptoms,
take supplemental Tryptophan (L-5-HTP)
until your symptoms diminish.
You'll be thankful for the attitude adjustment.
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