Health hack with @amysfitnessandnutrition
How to dose up on happiness.
No I’m not talking about drugs but rather our happy hormones… dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins. They are your 4 key happy chemicals. They are the brain’s chemical messengers responsible for making us feel ‘high’ (for want of a better word) rather than low. They play a role in making us feel energized, motivated, happy and more…
With this week’s weather, busy work days and the uncertainty of the ongoing COVID situation these chemicals (that play a huge role in our hormones, mood, energy levels, appetite, sleep and more) could be thrown out of whack. So here are a few key ways to hack your brains chemical messengers and make sure yours are in balance.
Get a higher DOSE…
Dopamine:
It’s a crucial chemical messenger in the brain involved in motivation, rewards and even memory. Best ways to increase dopamine? Eating enough protein rich foods which contain crucial amino acids (think beef, eggs or soy for veggies), and exercise – just 30 mins makes a difference.
Oxytocin:
Our love hormone…released during kisses, cuddles & sex - crucial to human bonding. It is also released during childbirth and breastfeeding to help build that bond. Physical touching, giving and receiving love, attention and affection all release oxytocin. Yoga, massage and even time with friends can increase your levels.
Serotonin:
One of our most crucial hormones for happiness, motivation and feeling good. It is also linked to digestion and sleep. Tryptophan in high protein foods like chicken and salmon is a pre-cursor for serotonin production in the body. Exercise also releases tryptophan into your blood stream.
Endorphins:
The word gives you a clue - built from ‘Endogenous’ (from within) and ‘Morphine’ (which we should hopefully know). These bad boys not only reduce stress but also feelings of pain if you have any. What helps endorphins? Exercise is key. There is a reason they call it a runner’s high.
This hack just scrapes the surface but hopefully gives you some good food for thought.