Want to be Happier? Have Some Nuts

Nuts
Photo by Sandi Benedicta on Unsplash

Certain foods are just thought of as “happy” foods. For example, chocolate and ice cream come to mind. But, as it turns out, nuts can be rather cheerful, too. 

A new study claims that nuts can increase serotonin levels in the brain. Being the chemical responsible for making us happy, serotonin plays a key role in our mood, sleep, and sexual behavior. 

The findings were based on a study that included 131 participants who were considered overweight or obese. During a 24-week weight loss program, the individuals were given a daily snack weighing 1.5 ounces. Some were given pretzels, while others got a combination of tree nuts.

Researchers decided to analyze the blood and fecal matter of the partakers and discovered that the nut noshers experienced more health benefits than their pretzel counterparts.

These indicators included lower blood pressure, fewer cardiovascular risk factors, and more serotonin. Halfway through the study, tests showed a 60% increase in the happy hormone, which then grew to 80% by the end of the 6-month period. 

The nuts used in the study ranged from almonds to macadamias, pistachios, walnuts, pine nuts, Brazil nuts, cashews, pecans, and hazelnuts. So, why nut grab a handful?