The Protein-Mood Connection
25 Apr 2025 by Ted Escobedo 2 min read
Many times, our diets can affect our mood and emotional well-being. Which is why experts recommend that if you want to give your mood a boost, try eating more protein. Protein provides the amino acids that the body needs to produce serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine. These neurotransmitters are involved in regulating mood, energy, and motivation.
Protein helps to keep blood sugar levels stable, which can prevent mood swings and energy crashes. Oftentimes the symptoms folks associate with anxiety or depression are simply the result of big swings in blood sugar. Keeping blood sugar even is a relatively simple way to minimize these symptoms.
Inflammation has been linked to a few mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety. Protein can help to reduce inflammation by boosting the immune system and promoting cell repair.
If you are struggling with low mood or low energy, it is important to make sure that you are getting enough protein in your diet. Good sources of protein include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, legumes, nuts, and seeds.
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- Emotional Health