The Power of Protein: How it Can Boost Your Mood and Support Your Well Being

One of the biggest things that women tell me when eating more protein is that their moods have improved greatly! 🙌🏻

Proteins provide amino acids, especially tryptophan and tyrosine, which are essential building blocks for neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.

These neurotransmitters play major roles in mood regulation and well-being.

Eating more protein can positively affect mood due to its role in supporting key physiological and neurological functions. Here’s how protein consumption can help:

1. Production of Neurotransmitters

Protein is made up of amino acids, which are the building blocks for neurotransmitters—chemicals in the brain that regulate mood. For example:

• Tryptophan, an amino acid found in protein-rich foods, is a precursor to serotonin, often referred to as the “feel-good” hormone.
• Tyrosine, another amino acid, is essential for the production of dopamine and norepinephrine, which contribute to motivation, focus, and energy.

2. Stabilizing Blood Sugar Levels

Eating protein can help regulate blood sugar levels by slowing down the absorption of carbohydrates. Stable blood sugar levels prevent mood swings, irritability, and fatigue that can arise from rapid spikes and drops in blood glucose.

3. Supporting Hormonal Balance

Protein is crucial for hormone synthesis and regulation. Hormonal imbalances, particularly during menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause, can affect mood. Adequate protein intake ensures the body has the resources to produce and maintain hormonal equilibrium.

4. Reducing Stress and Anxiety

Amino acids like glycine and glutamine, found in protein, may have calming effects on the brain and reduce the physiological impact of stress. Protein consumption also supports the adrenal glands, which play a role in managing stress hormones like cortisol.

5. Energy and Cognitive Function

Protein-rich meals provide sustained energy, helping to combat fatigue and brain fog. This can improve overall mood and mental clarity.

Tips for Including Protein

• Choose a variety of sources: Lean meats, eggs, fish, dairy, legumes, nuts, seeds, and if plant-based, options like tofu and tempeh, ideally organic are great.
• Distribute protein intake: Aim to include protein in every meal to support consistent mood and energy levels throughout the day. 30 grams at each meal is ideal!

Plus, it helps stabilize blood sugar by slowing down carbohydrate absorption, which can prevent energy crashes and mood swings often associated with fluctuating blood sugar levels.

If you want a 4-week program + meal plan that will help you get in 30 grams of protein at each meal, with over 25 delicious recipes then check out my popular program Protein Power

This program has been a game changer for so many women who struggle to come up with healthy meal ideas that hit their protein targets. In the first week alone, you’ll start to notice improvements with energy, sleep and your mood. 

Check out the program and let me know what you think! Cheers to more protein power💥