Page 53 - FoodFocusThailand No.233 August 2025

STRATEGIC R & D

The relationship between neurotransmitters and
emotions
In the human brain, there are four primary neurotransmitters that
play crucial roles in regulating emotions and positive feelings
commonly referred to as “happiness hormones” or D.O.S.E.
These neurotransmitters dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and
endorphins—are synthesized by the brain to elicit feelings of
happiness. Each of these substances operates via distinct
mechanisms (Chulabhorn Royal Academy, 2022) (Figure 1).
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter synthesized by the brain to
send signals to neurons when we experience satisfaction from
obtaining what we desire or achieving our goals. Dopamine
controls motivation-driven behavior, driving us to successfully
complete tasks. Individuals with dopamine levels often lack
enthusiasm or “lazy,” whereas those who are “ambitious” or willing
to do anything to achieve success typically have high dopamine ภาพที่่� 3 กลไกการออกฤทธิ์์�ของ Omega-3 Polyunsaturated fatty Acids
levels. In addition, dopamine is involved in bodily movements. (PUFAs) ต่่อลำาไส้้และส้มอง
For example, patients with Parkinson’s disease experience Figure 3 The mechanism of action of Omega-3 Polyunsaturated
movement control problems due to a dopamine deficiency in Fatty Acids (PUFAs) on the gut and brain.
the brain. Abnormal dopamine levels have also been linked to ที่่�มา / Source : Zinkow et al. (2024)
psychiatric disorders. For instance, individuals with schizophrenia
often exhibit symptoms such as delusions, hallucinations, and
disorganized communication. (Balchem Corporation, 2023). Currently, numerous studies have
Oxytocin, also known as the “love hormone,” is a hormone investigated the roles of specific nutrients in neurotransmitter
synthesis, their ability to reduce neuroinflammation, and their
produced in the body during physical contact with others and contributions to enhancing mental and emotional well-being,
during feelings of comfort, safety, and warmth. It plays a crucial such as:
role in strengthening social bonds and boosting emotional • L-tryptophan, an essential amino acid, is the primary
immunity. Oxytocin also helps counteract cortisol’s stress- precursor for serotonin synthesis. Foods rich in L-tryptophan
inducing effects, allowing individuals to manage fear and stressful include meat, milk, eggs, and soybeans (Department of Mental
situations more effectively. Additionally, oxytocin has been found Health, Ministry of Public Health, 2020). Consuming 1.8
to help to alleviate symptoms of anxiety disorders and disordered grams of tryptophan daily for seven consecutive days helps
eating behaviors (Giel et al., 2018). restore serotonin balance in the brain and reduce symptoms
Serotonin, often referred to as the “leadership hormone,” is of depression (Markus et al., 2021) (Figure 2).
a neurotransmitter— more than 90% of which is synthesized in • Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly Eicosapentaenoic Acid
the gastrointestinal tract. It is synthesized from the amino acid (EPA) and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA), enhance the flexibility
L-tryptophan and transported to the brain via the bloodstream. of neuronal cell membranes, maintain serotonin balance, and
Serotonin is produced in response to feelings of pride, loyalty, reduce neuroinflammation (Figure 3). Consuming 1.5 grams of
and the recognition of success or acceptance by others. Beyond omega-3 fatty acids daily for 12 consecutive weeks can reduce
its well-known role in mood regulation, serotonin also plays the risk of depression and improve emotional quality of life
an important role in memory function and in repairing various (Crowe-White & O’Connor, 2022). Common dietary sources of
organs in the body. Low serotonin levels can result in feelings omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, tuna, and others.
of sadness, a diminished sense of well-being, and lack of joy. • Probiotics are microorganisms that reside in the
This increases the risk of depressive and anxiety disorders, gastrointestinal tract and play a crucial role in brain function via
stress-related conditions, and difficulties in emotional regulation, the Gut-Brain Axis. They influence the production and regulation
such as irritability, anger, and mood swings. of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and GABA,
which are involved in emotional expression, memory, and
Endorphins, often referred to as the “pleasure chemicals,” human behavior (Ansari et al., 2023; Kumar et al., 2024).
are hormones produced when we feel cheerful, for example, after • Serotonin-Enriched Bread is an innovative bread product
finishing a competition or watching a performance that makes our developed using an enhanced fermentation technique with a
heart race and excites us. Sometimes, endorphins help to block modified strain of Saccharomyces boulardii yeast engineered
pain, which makes us feel relaxed. For example, taking a cold to produce serotonin. The resulting bread contains high levels
shower in the morning can significantly boost endorphin levels, of serotonin (up to 0.2 mg/100 g) (Kim et al., 2025).
and laughing hard can also trigger their release. During intense Additionally, there are many other essential nutrients
laughter, the tensing of the abdominal muscles can cause muscle such as polyphenol-rich supplements, magnesium, vitamin C,
soreness, prompting the brain to release endorphins and create and choline, which help stimulate serotonin and dopamine, and
a sense of well-being. regulate cortisol production triggered by stress, depression,
and mood disorders (Department of Mental Health, 2020). It
The role of nutrients in promoting mental well-being is evident that these nutrients significantly influence the brain
Nowadays, economic and social issues have become and emotional well-being. Therefore, mindful dietary choices
increasingly prevalent, leading people to experience higher serve as a key strategy for enhancing mental and emotional
levels of stress that negatively affect their health and disrupt the well-being, enabling us to achieve a sustainable quality of life.
balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. This imbalance can lead
to various bodily dysfunctions, such as muscle cramps, bloating,
abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and sleep disturbances. These
problems can significantly impair one’s quality of life. Therefore, More Information Service Info C008
consuming foods containing key bioactive compounds that
promote brain and emotional well-being has become essential
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