12/09/2022
If you’ve ever found yourself hitting a slump, it’s probably time to ditch the sugary sweets and greasy fast food and focus on the right foods to bring out your inner happy camper. You see, research is increasingly showing that what we eat can affect our mood.
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a study that found individuals who ate a varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables had significantly lower levels of depression than those who ate fewer such foods.
Similarly, another study published in Nutrition Reviews found that people who consumed more than four servings of fruits and veggies per day had a 65% lesser chance of developing depression than those who consumed less.
In other words, it’s time to re-visit your dietary habits for healthier physical and mental health.
A great source of protein is eggs, which are crucial for good mood and cognitive function. Studies have also found that eggs can help relieve anxiety and stress, resulting in a better sense of well-being.
An easy way to boost your mood is to have a healthy breakfast. It’s important to note that an egg’s yolk contains vitamins that are great for your mood.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is one of the most mood-boosting foods you can eat. Dark chocolate contains high levels of the chemical phenylethylamine, or PEA, which is a chemical associated with feelings of happiness. Consuming dark chocolate can make you less prone to stress and more focused.
A recent study found that people who consumed dark chocolate regularly had elevated dopamine levels in their brains, which is the mood-boosting chemical linked to feelings of bliss and joy. So, not only is dark chocolate delicious, but it’s also a great source of mood-boosting nutrients.
Walnuts are a great source of vitamin E, one of the most vital nutrients for mood regulation. Vitamin E acts like an antioxidant that helps to protect our cells from oxidative stress, which is linked to depression. This means that walnuts can also be used as an antidepressant!
Walnuts are also an excellent source of minerals, including manganese, which is essential for regulating stress hormones. So, walnuts are a great option to boost your mood and protect your mental health.
Fish And Other Omega-3-Rich Foods
Fish is an excellent source of mood-boosting omega-3 fatty acids, which help regulate brain chemistry and protect mental health. This includes depression, anxiety, and a decreased sense of well-being.
In addition, a healthy amount of fish is also considered to be a low-carb diet superfood, which means that it’s an excellent source of protein. A great way to incorporate more fish into your diet is by having a fish-based salad at lunch.
Dark, leafy greens serve as a vital source of vitamins, minerals, and fibre, which all positively impact your mood. For example, vitamins like B, C, and K help regulate mood and protect against depression, anxiety, and stress. Similarly, minerals like iron, calcium, manganese, and zinc help to protect against depression.
Salmon
Salmon is a great source of the mood-boosting amino acid tryptophan, which is why it is considered one of the top foods for increasing serotonin, the chemical that regulates happiness.
People who consumed salmon had increased serotonin levels in their brains, making this food beneficial for mood regulation. And salmon is also low in saturated fat, making it a healthy, low-calorie option.
legumes, like beans and lentils, are a great source of protein and nutrients associated with improved mood and decreased feelings of stress. This includes vitamins, minerals, fibre, amino acids, and tryptophan.
Your diet can adversely impact your mood, so preparing yourself with the right foods is important to feel happy and healthy. These foods will make you feel healthier and more alive! Making healthy food choices is the best way to stay fit, which keeps you stress-free and joyful while also providing the nutrients your body and mind require.
There are plenty of ways to incorporate healthier eating into your diet, but it’s also important to remember what you eat doesn’t happen in a vacuum. You need to get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and engage in other activities that bring joy to your life.
