Are there supplements for gratitude?
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has mentioned a couple of over-the-counter approaches that could potentially enhance the neuromodulator serotonin in the brain, which is associated with pro-social behaviors and feeling of gratitude 1. These approaches include 5-HTP or tryptophan supplements. However, he expressly notes concerns about the use of such supplements because they may disrupt the normal architecture of sleep cycles. He describes a personal experience where 5-HTP or tryptophan led him to fall asleep very deeply but then woke up a few hours later, unable to fall back asleep and affected the subsequent night's sleep.
Furthermore, he introduced a legal over-the-counter compound called Kanna (Sceletium tortuosum or Zembrin) that likely increases serotonin in the body, potentially enhancing states of comfort and gratitude. He presents Kanna as a substance historically chewed before stressful endeavors, mentioning that it is typically taken in dosages of 25 to 50 milligrams to enhance pro-social neurocircuitry effective in gratitude practices 2.
However, emphasizes that these supplements are not suitable for everyone and urges caution and consulting with a doctor before considering such supplements, as individual responses may vary and could hold potential risks. He maintains the stance that one is responsible for their own health decisions.
While not explicitly stating these substances as "supplements for gratitude", he acknowledges that serotonin-enhancing substances could, in theory, support gratitude practices.
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