When someone is depressed they crave carbohydrate foods, and
the tryptophan paradox may explain why. In a depressed phase,
the brain inherently recognizes the paucity of serotonin and
compensatory mechanisms take place to drive the tryptophan brain
levels up. Eating carbohydrates increases insulin levels which, in turn
allow tryptophan access to the transport sites into the brain. When
we are satiated with tryptophan we no longer crave carbohydrates
and we inherently choose a balanced diet. This knowledge can be
used to manage your diet to reduce carbohydrate cravings and
maintain weight.