Types of Nuts With Serotonin

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that regulates mood, appetite, and sleep in the central nervous system. Although many people take medicine to increase their serotonin levels, it can be found in many foods as well. A seminal study by Duke University medical researchers Jerome M. Feldman, M.D., and Ellen M. Lee found that several varieties of nuts have high levels of serotonin.

Butternuts

• The oily nuts of the White Walnut, or "Butternut," tree can be found across most of the United States. Feldman and Lee's study determined that there are 398 millionths of a gram of seratonin in every gram of butternut.

Black Walnuts

• Native to eastern North America and available commercially worldwide, the black walnut has a crunchy and flavorful meat that is also high in serotonin. Feldman and Lee's study determined that there are 304 millionths of a gram of serotonin in every gram of black walnut.

Shagbark Hickory Nuts

• Shagbark hickory trees, native to the eastern United States and southern Canada, produce a sweet nut that is sometimes used to make maple syrup. Feldman and Lee's study determined that there are 143 millionths of a gram of serotonin in every gram of shagbark hickory nut.

English Walnuts

• Found in an area stretching from the Balkans to western China, English walnuts are a traditional food source in many communities throughout the globe. Feldman and Lee's study determined that there are 87 millionths of a gram of serotonin in every gram of English walnut

Mockernuts

• Mockernut hickory trees, and the round-shaped nuts they carry with them, are found across the United States and Canada. Feldman and Lee's study determined that there are 67 millionths of a gram of serotonin in every gram of mockernut.

Pecans

• Pecans are one of the most popular commercially-available nuts in the world. Feldman and Lee's study determined that there are 29 millionths of a gram of serotonin in every gram of pecan.