The Claim
In adults aged 65 and older, consuming 162 grams per day of minimally processed pork or 332 grams per day of lentils within a plant-forward diet for 8 weeks increases circulating levels of GABA, tryptophan, phenylalanine, and glycine.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
In adults aged 65 and older, eating 162 grams of minimally processed pork or 332 grams of lentils daily for 8 weeks within a plant-forward diet raises blood levels of GABA, tryptophan, phenylalanine, and glycine.
See the scientific wording
In adults aged 65 and older, consuming 162 grams per day of minimally processed pork or 332 grams per day of lentils within a plant-forward diet for 8 weeks increases circulating levels of GABA, tryptophan, phenylalanine, and glycine, suggesting that both dietary patterns may support neurochemical pathways linked to mood and cognitive regulation.
Eating pork or lentils increases specific amino acids in the blood, which the body uses to make brain chemicals like GABA and serotonin. More of these amino acids reduce overactive brain signals and boost calming signals, improving brain function.
What the research says
1 studyIn older adults, eating either lean pork or lentils as part of a healthy, plant-based diet raised levels of brain-friendly chemicals like GABA and tryptophan, which may help with mood and thinking. The study found this to be true for both foods.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.