In part 3, balancing within, we discussed the importance of the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in maintaining homeostasis or balance within and how crucial omega fatty acids are to our health and well-being. In this segment, we will continue looking at other ways to feed the endocannabinoid system and see how small changes can positively impact your health.

Let’s take a look at Anandamide and its role in your pain, mood, appetite, and even fertility. Like THC, anandamide (an endocannabinoid our body produces) inhibits the release of the neurotransmitter glutamate. High levels of glutamate are responsible for chronic pain. Anandamide also plays a big role in our overall mood and low levels have been linked to depression and anxiety.

• Sanskrit for “bliss”, this happy and uplifting neurotransmitter (facilitates the transmission of signals between cells) is found in nearly all tissues of animals and even in some plants.
• Anandamide is derived from healthy omega -6 fatty acids and plays a role in regulating dopamine and calcium, crucial in nerve conduction, and influencing motor function.
• Encourages the development of nerve cells in the brain (neurogenesis) which is imperative for memory and learning. Protects the brain against stroke and inflammation.
• Involved in embryo implantation within the uterine lining.
• Mimics binding effects of THC.
• Low levels are associated with depression, increased fear, anxiety, and lessen your ability to cope with stress.
• Helps appetite stimulation, too much anandamide may play a role in obesity.
• The enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) breaks down anandamide.

You can see that anandamide is responsible for many physical and mental health benefits. The question now is, if I need more anandamide, where can I get it? There are not many foods that increase anandamide naturally. The two known are dark chocolate and black truffles (the mushroom).

Chocolate – or the “foods of the Gods” according to the Mayas, has been scientifically studied and is shown to have many benefits including:

• One of the highest sources of antioxidants even more than blueberries
• Lowers the risk of heart disease and improves blood flow, decreases bad cholesterol LDL
• High in nutrients – manganese, copper, iron, magnesium, and fiber
• Improving insulin sensitivity
• May improve cognitive functions

Yes, there is a big difference between real chocolate vs. compound chocolate (the cocoa butter is replaced with vegetable oil). Real chocolate, where you’ll find all the benefits, is called cacao or cocoa. Cacao refers to cacao beans that have not been roasted, while cocoa is made from roasted beans. Real chocolate contains some anandamide, but more importantly, it has two compounds that block FAAH from breaking down anandamide.

Black truffles – Truffles are an underground mushroom from the Tuber genus and are known for their unique and delectable taste. They are high in carbs, protein, fiber and contain both saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, as well as micronutrients, such as vitamin C, phosphorus, sodium, calcium, magnesium, manganese and iron. Research has shown a very strong truffle extract may help:

• Reduce oxidative stress
• Protect the liver from damage
• Aid the immune system with anti-microbial properties
• Anticancer potential due to their high antioxidants
• Inhibited the growth of Staphylococcus aureus
• They do contain anandamide

Unfortunately, the amount of truffles you would need to consume to reap these benefits is fairly high, so it’s unlikely to have a significant impact. But there is another way to help anandamide out. There are far more foods that block FAAH from breaking down anandamide.

Here is a shortlist of other foods that support your ECS either by blocking FAAH from breaking down anandamide or by positively promoting the ECS. For optimal benefits, it’s best to consume fresh organic foods.