5. Supplements & Vitamins
5-HTP is made in the body from L-tryptophan. If one is looking to increase mood, 5-HTP is more highly recommended than L-tryptophan because it crosses the blood-brain barrier more easily and converts to serotonin more efficiently. This causes an effect similar to that of anti-depressant medication.
It also is noted to produce a long-term increase in serotonin levels, even after cessation of supplementation. 5-HTP can be purchased at health food stores and online. 5-HTP cannot be gained from food, but L-tryptophan can be. L-Tryptophan can be found in potatoes, sunflower seeds, pumpkin, collard greens, turnip, and seaweed.
Curcumin is the active ingredient in Turmeric, and it’s a supplement that can be purchased online and provides a wide variety of health benefits. These benefits include strong antioxidant properties, intense anti-inflammatory effects, and consequently higher serotonin levels! Vitamins B6, B12, folate, and saffron all help with encouraging healthy serotonin levels, as well.