Oxytocin food could be a powerful tool for overcoming a variety of complex health conditions. In common situations, Oxytocin is released naturally by the body during periods of human bonding. Oxytocin is a component of childbirth, breastfeeding, and moments of intimacy. However, it’s also possible to replicate the sensations of Oxytocin through the consumption of certain foods.
Studies into the positive side effects of oxytocin indicate that this substance may be essential in assisting patients in overcoming addictions and reducing the desire to overeat.
The hypothalamic neurohormone helps to reduce the desire for overeating by influencing the reward centre of the brain. Effects of oxytocin work alongside other “happy hormones” to positive impact mood and emotional state, while reducing negative feelings like craving.
The Symptoms of Low Oxytocin
Low levels of oxytocin could be a trigger for pleasure-seeking behaviours like overeating.
It’s often difficult to detect the signs that oxytocin may not be performing optimally in the body, as symptoms are regularly confused with signs of depression or low mood. Some indicators of low oxytocin might include a lack of interest in social interaction, or difficulty with communication.
Oxytocin can also diminish through exposure to stress. Stress causes cortisol levels to rise, while oxytocin levels fall. Managing stress therefore becomes a crucial component of handling low oxytocin.
The fastest way to improve oxytocin levels, and deliver better hormone balance in the human body, is to consume the right nutrients. A dietary strategy, combined with regular beneficial activity and exercise is essential to increasing the presence of “happy” hormones in the body.
While physical touch and intimacy both increase oxytocin levels, most professionals will recommend an initial focus on diet and exercise to address problems with low mood and oxytocin imbalances.
Nutritional Support for Oxytocin Food
To increase oxytocin, and the benefits that the hormone has on managing weight, patients must follow the right dietary strategy. A healthy diet is a crucial part of keeping anyone fit and well, but it could also be the key to managing hormone balance.
Vitamin D, otherwise known as the “happy vitamin”, is particularly crucial for oxytocin levels. An imbalance in vitamin D is frequently linked to depression levels. Spending time outside can improve the amount of vitamin D in the human body, as sunshine helps to generate more of the crucial nutrient. Taking supplements high in vitamin D is also useful.
Aside from offering nutrition, Vitamin D is also a prohormone, which means that it supports the development of oxytocin, serotonin, and vasopressin. Other dietary requirements for higher levels of oxytocin include:
- Vitamin C: Vitamin C assists in the development of oxytocin, just like Vitamin D. Vitamin C is common among vegetables like peppers, as well as citrus fruits and tomatoes.
- Magnesium: Magnesium is used by the body for nerve and muscle function, but it is also required for oxytocin to function well. Magnesium rich foods include pumpkin and spinach.
- Dietary fats: The human body needs dietary fats to create hormones. Good HDL cholesterol can help the body to maintain oxytocin levels.
Finding the right balance of oxytocin food without pushing the patient to overeat to get the right nutrients can be difficult. That’s why supplementation may be the best option for many people.
Why Mushroom Supplements Support Oxytocin
Supplementation with medicinal mushrooms could be the best way to access the oxytocin food our body needs. Mushrooms are packed full of valuable nutrients and many assist with overcoming problems of stress. For instance:
- Reishi mushroom: The Reishi mushroom is effective at regulating the CNS, which supports the reduction of feelings like stress and anxiety. Reishi also elevates HDL levels of good cholesterol, which is essential for oxytocin development.
- Cordyceps sinensis: Cordyceps mushrooms are a valuable source of antioxidants, and they can also offer significant doses of Vitamin C, supporting the formulation of oxytocin. Cordyceps can also be rich in vitamin D.
- Agaricus blazei: This form of mushroom is excellent for protecting against autoimmune diseases, but it’s also rich in Vitamin D, which encourages the production of oxytocin.
Mushrooms are rich in nutritional benefits that aid the production of essential vitamins and minerals for stress management and oxytocin production. What’s more, many of these supplemental solutions will have no impact on the caloric intake of the patient. Taking a supplement could help those with overeating issues to access the benefits of oxytocin food, without requiring them to eat any additional food items in their daily schedule.
The right combination of mushroom supplements will also support weight management by encouraging better metabolic performance and reducing inflammation within the body.