Appetite and Neurotransmitters:
Fernstrom, JD, et al.
Diet, monamine neurotransmitters and appetite control. Nestle Nutri Workshop Clin Perfom Programme 2001; (5): 117-31; discussion 131-3.
This article points out the relationships between serotonin and dopamine in the brain and the control of appetite and food intake. Changes in dietary carbohydrate ingestion modifies brain serotonin production and release. Carbohydrates increase serotonin production while ingestion of dietary protein influences dopamine synthesis.
Effects of Dieting on Neurotransmitters:
Anderson, IM, et al.
Dieting reduces plasma tryptophan and alters brain 5-HT (serotonin) function in women. Psychological Medicine 1990; 20: 785-791.
A three week low calorie diet significantly reduced both total plasma tryptophan and serotonin synthesis in women. Women appear more vulnerable than men.
Cangiano, C et al.
Eating behavior and adherence to dietary prescriptions in obese adult subjects treated with 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP). American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 1992; 56: 863-7.
Prior studies showed that overweight subjects given oral 5-HTP supplements but no diet instructions experienced anorexia, decreased food intake and weight loss. This double blinded study was done to verify whether adherence to a diet could be improved by giving dieters oral 5-HTP. Significant weight loss was observed in the 5-HTP treated group. A reduction of carbohydrate intake and early satiety were also found. These findings together with good tolerance observed suggest that 5-HTP may be safely used to treat obesity.
Dietary Carbohydrates and Neurotransmitters:
Benton, D.
Carbohydrate ingestion, blood glucose and mood. Neuroscience Biobehavioral Review 2002 May; 26(3): 293-308.
Meals almost exclusively carbohydrate increase the availability of tryptophan and hence serotonin synthesis in the brain, however a small amount of protein blocks the mechanism of serotonin synthesis. Differences in the ability to control blood glucose levels influence the association between carbohydrate intake and mood.
Wurtman, JJ. Carbohydrate craving.
Relationship between carbohydrate intake and disorders of mood. Drugs 1990; 39 (Suppl 3): 49-52.
Common to repetitive episodes of weight gain or failure to succeed on weight loss regimens is the excessive consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods in association with low moods. The brain neurotransmitter, serotonin, seems to be involved in the abnormal regulation of mood and food intake that underlies failures or weight gain in individuals who suffer from carbohydrate craving obesity, premenstrual syndrome and seasonal affective disorder. All 3 syndromes are characterized by episodic bouts of increased carbohydrate consumption and depressed mood. Studies with dietary treatment or drugs that enhance serotonin is associated with normalized food intake and mood.
