Investigating The Dopaminergic Effects Of Fava Bean Consumption On Anxiety Reduction And Brain Activity Changes

Anxiety is a common psychiatric disorder that significantly affects quality of life and mental well-being. In recent years, natural and nutrition-based strategies for anxiety management have gained increasing attention. Fava beans (Vicia faba), rich in bioactive compounds such as L-DOPA, tyramine, phenylethylamine, natural lithium, magnesium, and polyphenols, show potential anxiolytic effects through multiple neurological and metabolic pathways. L-DOPA, as a dopamine precursor, plays a central role in mood enhancement and anxiety reduction, while biogenic amines like tyramine may influence stress responses via dopaminergic and noradrenergic systems. Additionally, trace elements like lithium and magnesium support mood stabilization and modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of fava bean compounds further contribute to neuroprotection and anxiety relief. Despite these potential benefits, fava bean consumption poses important clinical considerations. Individuals with G۶PD deficiency (favism) are at risk of severe hemolysis, and high tyramine content may trigger hypertensive crises when combined with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Careful evaluation of dosing, possible drug interactions, and specific conditions such as pregnancy and chronic illnesses is essential. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of preclinical and clinical findings on the anxiolytic effects of fava beans, their impact on brain activity—including EEG and neuroimaging changes and their role in gut-brain axis modulation. Future perspectives on developing fava-based supplements as natural and safe therapeutic options in anxiety treatment are also discussed.

کلیدواژه ها:

Fava beans ، L-DOPA ، Anxiety ، Dopaminergic ، Favism