Pain and itch are influenced by two chemicals , Serotonin and Dopamine. Eat the following whole foods to balance Serotonin, Dopamine and Endorphins and do get a hug too. Hugging can increase the production of dopamine in your brain. Endorphins are endogenous opioid neuropeptides and peptide hormones in humans and other animals. They are produced by the central nervous system and the pituitary gland. Scratching an itch causes minor pain, which prompts the brain to release serotonin. But serotonin also reacts with receptors on neurons that carry itch signals to the brain, making itching worse. It has been observed that the release of the neurotransmitter dopamine stimulates this brain center to feel pleasure in “peak experiences,” such as from solving a difficult problem.
Raw pumpkin seeds
Spirulina
Raw spinach
Sesame seeds
Raw almonds
Bananas
Raw dried dates
Oats
Watercress
Sunflower seeds
Horseradish
Pumpkin leaves
Turnip greens
Cacao
Buckwheat
Millet
All of the above are geared toward a vegan diet and they all offer the perfect balance to help enhance your mood through the natural production of serotonin.
Non-vegans may add:
Mussels
Lobsters
Eggs
Cottage cheese
Turkey
