11 foods that can improve your mood … eating for health
Lost your mojo now that winter has arrived? The cold, the dark, the coughs and sniffles of winter can leave even the cheeriest of us feeling a little blue. Did you know that there are some foods that are great for making you more alert and boosting your mood and happiness? Eat these 11 foods frequently as part of a well-balanced diet and feel good again.
1. Salmon - People who eat two to three weekly servings of omega-3 DHA rich foods have among the lowest rates of depression in the world.
2. Coffee / green tea – Caffeinated coffee has been shown to decrease the risk of depression while green tea has a calming effect on the brain and improves mental focus.
3. Air popped popcorn – A popcorn snack can raise serotonin levels, which helps relax you and put you in a better mood.
4. Shellfish – Shellfish is the richest source of vitamin B-12, which, when deficient, can result in lethargy and reduced motivation for normal activities.
5. Leafy greens – Have one to two servings a day of leafy greens such as spinach or kale. Leafy greens are high in folic acid, which, when deficient, has been linked to depression.
6. Dark chocolate – Dark chocolate can reduce the level of stress hormones. Research has found that after eating a sweet like chocolate, people were more likely to volunteer to help another person.
7. Raw chilli / capsicum – When raw, both red and green chillies and capsicum are very high in vitamins known to reduce stress hormones.
8. Water – One of the first signs of dehydration is fatigue, and even mild dehydration alters a person’s mood, energy levels and mental function.
9. Dates - Fruits with a good ratio of tryptophan to phenylalanine and leucine, like dates, will increase serotonin levels.
10. Olive oil – Olive oil contains anti-inflammatory properties that may help to reduce the progression of depressive disorders.
11. Berries – Berries, especially blueberries and blackberries, are loaded with anthocyanidins, which are known to boost brain function.
