Peanut Butter

The protein content in peanuts and peanut butter is a source of tryptophan. Tryptophan provides the building blocks for serotonin. Serotonin is an important neurotransmitter for gut and mental health. Tryptophan increases serotonin levels to help one relax.

Therefore, eating peanut butter or other foods with tryptophan before bed may alleviate sleep issues and may enhance sleep quality. Peanut butter is highly nutritious and rich in protein, which reduces food cravings and promotes muscle growth.

A 6-month trial in young, healthy adults found that daily consumption of roasted peanuts or peanut butter improved depression and anxiety scores and that peanut butter enhanced memory functions. This Study Summary was published on November 2, 2021.

Peanut butter, a nutrient-dense food, contains phytonutrients, such as beta-sitosterol. The compound Beta-sitosterol may be of value as an antidepressant. The compound Beta-sitosterol works to help reduce feelings of anxiety, possibly by stabilizing cortisol, a hormone released during times of stress.

Peanut butter is high in the amino acid tyrosine, a precursor of dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters that promote alertness, drive, and motivation.

Anecdotal evidence also indicates that beta-sitosterol helps reduce feelings of anxiety, possibly by stabilizing cortisol, a hormone released during times of stress. In animal studies, stress has also been shown to trigger high-fat food cravings. You might find yourself reaching for a jar of peanut butter if you’re feeling anxious, stressed out, or depressed, in an attempt to reduce those feelings.