Wouldn’t it be great if we could get a mood boost by eating certain foods? Well, we can! There are some foods that have scientifically been proven to be a natural “happy pill” that uplifts us.
Here’s the list of good mood food - use it wisely ;-)
Dark Chocolate
If you think having some chocolate will make you feel better… science says you’re right! The antioxidants found in cocoa reduce our Cortisol level and elevate our serotonin level. Cortisol is a hormone our body releases in response to stress. A steady level of cortisol-reducing antioxidants in the body helps us feel less anxious in stressful situations. But it’s not about reaching for whatever chocolate you have around at the time you feel anxious. It’s about consuming small amounts, about 10-15 grams daily, of dark, min. 70% cacao chocolate over a period of time.
Quinoa
This protein-packed grain is an all around positive mood booster. Quinoa is high in magnesium, a mineral that balances chemical reactions and produces energy.
Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
These vegetables are packed with Folic Acid. Deficiency in Folic Acid has been linked to depression. Folic Acid is also active in the formation of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which has a positive effect on our mood, appetite and sleep.
Bananas
Bananas contain Tryptophan, an amino acid that regulates our brain. Studies found that consuming bananas for breakfast, combined with exposure to morning sunlight seems to have a positive effect on our sleep quality.
Pumpkin Seeds
These tasty seeds (a great addition to your salad!) are high in zinc which contributes to our sense of calm and helps induce the mood-boosting serotonin release in the brain. Low levels of zinc mineral have been linked to anxiety.