A study reveals the unexpected benefits of tuna pasta

Easy to prepare, economical, and always tasty, pasta al tonno (tuna pasta) is one of the favorite dishes of Italians from university to last-minute meals. But did you know that in addition to delighting our taste buds, this dish could also… improve our mood? This is confirmed by a study conducted by AstraRicerche for the ANCIT (Italian Association of Fish Canners).

Tryptophan: the secret ingredient for happiness

Canned tuna is one of the richest foods in tryptophan, an essential amino acid that plays a key role in the production of serotonin (mood regulator) and melatonin (sleep hormone). According to Dr. Luca Piretta, a gastroenterologist and nutritionist at the Campus Bio-medico University of Rome, a deficiency in tryptophan can lead to sleep disorders, weight gain, and emotional instability.

The winning combination? The carbohydrates in pasta facilitate the absorption of tryptophan by the body. A standard plate (80 g of pasta and 50 g of tuna) allows you to reach the 244 mg of tryptophan recommended per day.

A simple, complete, and balanced dish

This dish combines proteins (tuna), carbohydrates (pasta), B vitamins, omega 3, and even vitamin D. It is an ideal solution in a varied and balanced Mediterranean diet. To be consumed once a week, it remains an excellent choice for the body and mind.

Want to boost your good mood? Eat outside!

What if you added a touch of well-being by enjoying your pasta al tonno outdoors? This is the advice of Professor Vincenzo Russo, a specialist in consumer psychology and neuromarketing at IULM University in Milan. He states that:

  • 🧠 Meals in good company promote the production of serotonin, the happiness hormone.
  • 🌞 Exposure to natural light stimulates the limbic system and triggers the release of dopamine.

In other words, a simple dish like pasta al tonno, shared in the sun with loved ones, can have a real effect on our overall well-being.

A dish that has it all

Pasta al tonno is more than just a quick meal: it's a concentrate of essential nutrients, a source of good mood, and a beautiful expression of Mediterranean conviviality. So, how about filling up on serotonin tonight?

👉 Source : Read the original article on La Cucina Italiana