Carbohydrate serotonin effect

Other studies indicate that sucrose does not cause hyperactivity. Carbohydrate ingestion increases levels of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine), a brain neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and sleep. Dietary sucrose should theoretically have a calming effect and reduce activity, manifestations which have been observed in case studies (63). To date, clinical investigations have failed to show a significant connection between sucrose consumption and aggressive or dismptive behavior (66). 

Information regarding liver effects in animals after dermal exposure to chromium or its compounds is limited. A single application of 0.5% potassium dichromate (0.175% chromium(VI)) to the shaved skin of rats resulted in increased levels of serotonin in the liver, decreased activities of acetylcholinesterase and cholinesterase in the plasma and erythrocytes, increased levels of acetylcholine in the blood, and increased glycoprotein hexose in the serum. These effects may indicate alterations in carbohydrate metabolism (Merkur eva et al. 1982). 

It has been suggested that there may be some benefit of using tryptophan in selected patients, particularly those with psychomotor retardation (3). Unfortunately, most of these reports have appeared as letters to the editors of journals (4-6) or as preliminary communications (7). In addition to the possible absence of any consistent effect, there are many plausible reasons to explain the variability in response. Tryptophan has been given in both the racemic and monomeric (levorotatory) forms, both alone and together with a number of substances intended to increase the synthesis or availability of serotonin, including monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors (8), potassium or carbohydrate supplements (9), and co-enzymes such as pyridoxine or ascorbic acid (10). It has also been... 

Young, S. N. (1991). The 1989 Borden Award Lecture. Some effects of dietary components (amino acids, carbohydrate, folic acid) on brain serotonin synthesis, mood, and behavior. Can J Physiol Pharmacol 69(7) 893-903. 

In any case, the darkening reaction doesn t pose a health hazard. Even if your potatoes have turned black, you can still eat them. After all, potatoes are a true comfort food. Due to their high carbohydrate content, they elevate serotonin levels in the brain, which has a calming effect. And, believe it or not, researchers have discovered that potatoes harbor small amounts of naturally occurring benzodiazepines, compounds in the same chemical family as Valium. So, go ahead and enjoy your Christmas pudding, white or black. 

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