Foods can improve your mood in addition to nourishing, repairing, and rebuilding your physical body. When was the last time you overindulged in desserts solely to relieve your stress?
When we are unable to identify any causes to be joyful or at ease, food becomes our emotional solace. We experience “dopamine hits” from foods that elevate our mood, which helps us feel at ease and composed. However, we frequently choose the incorrect foods to binge on, such as junk food and sugary drinks. So we decided it was time to break the cycle and consume real food. So keep reading for a list of the best foods that put you in good mood when you’re down.
Foods that put you in good mood:
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
These are the ‘healthy’ fats that everyone has been advising you to eat. Incredible sources of omega-3 fatty acids include sardines, mackerel, tuna, and other fatty seafood. We must obtain omega-3 fatty acids from food sources because our bodies cannot produce them on their own. Surprisingly, research has shown that those with low levels of omega-3 fatty acids are prone to experience anxiety, sadness, and low mood. This is largely related to the omega-3 fats’ anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Additionally, higher dopamine and serotonin levels are linked to these lipids. All of these are recognized to have a good effect on mood.
Chocolates
Even though chocolate is frequently criticized for having a high sugar content, it tops our list. Chocolate aid in the release of happy hormones, which can instantly put you in a peaceful and relaxed state. Even though chocolate improves mood, it should only be used in moderation. Diabetes and obesity can be brought on by overconsumption, which raises blood sugar levels. It’s especially beneficial to choose dark chocolate over milk chocolate. They work much more quickly and have less sweetness.
Green Tea
Isn’t tea a soothing beverage? Green tea has long been linked to benefits for mood and efficiency, such as calmness and concentration. Due to the caffeine advantages of coffee, green tea is a powerful beverage. Moreover, it has l-theanine, an amino acid that has relaxing effects on the nervous system as well. Green tea’s constituents have been shown to work synergistically to enhance memory, focus, and other aspects of cognitive function while lowering anxiety. Additionally, drinking many cups of tea is an excellent method to stay hydrated. Dehydration has a detrimental effect on your mood, thus staying hydrated is also very important.
Banana
To suggest that the banana is an underestimated antidepressant wouldn’t be an exaggeration. Since it is a rich source of several vitamins and minerals, this is the ideal food for boosting mood. The vitamin B6 found in bananas helps to secrete dopamine, the main hormone responsible for elevating mood. For their mood-enhancing properties, bananas can be consumed both raw and ripe. So keep this in mind the next time you find yourself avoiding eating bananas on a regular basis.
Berries
Berries come in many different colours, so including them in your diet is like eating a rainbow. Antioxidants are abundant in these vibrant berries and are crucial for sustaining healthy health. Anthocyanins, in particular, are reported to significantly aid in lowering depression. Additionally, antioxidants improve the appearance of your skin, adding to their positive effects on mood. So keep eating those berries as a snack!
Fermented foods
Foods that are good for your gut are also good for your mood! Therefore, incorporating yoghurt, kimchi, and kefir into your diet can significantly improve your digestive health. Your mood is improved by eating foods that ease stomach problems. In addition, some gut-friendly microorganisms release hormones that improve moods, such as serotonin, which are essential for rest and sleep.
Whole Grains
The amino acids found in wholegrains help your body manufacture serotonin, the happy neurons. Serotonin helps to maintain a regular sleep cycle, elevate mood, and soothe the mind. Each of these is beneficial for keeping a clear head. It can also work quite quickly. Try consuming little quinoa, brown rice or maize if you’re feeling sad or run down. Serotonin will be released into your body as a result, which can make you feel happier right away. This is why eating a bowl of oats first thing in the morning will help you feel more upbeat.
