Feeling grouchy? Your low-carb diet could be to blame, according to two Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) researchers who have looked at carbohydrates and brain chemistry.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more


Husband-and-wife researchers Judith and Richard Wurtman have discovered that after a person consumes sweet or starchy carbohydrates, with little protein, the brain makes serotonin, a chemical that elevates mood. They also found the inverse to be true: when one stops eating carbohydrates, the brain stops regulating serotonin.


The Wurtmans also found the brain actually sends out signals to eat carbohydrates and that if the carbohydrate craver eats protein instead, he or she will become grumpy, irritable or restless.

Just Food Excellence Awards - The Benefits of Entering

Gain the recognition you deserve! The Just Food Excellence Awards celebrate innovation, leadership, and impact. By entering, you showcase your achievements, elevate your industry profile, and position yourself among top leaders driving food industry advancements. Don’t miss your chance to stand out—submit your entry today!

Nominate Now