Eat Your Way To Happiness: 5 Mood Boosting Foods

Everyone has a bad time now and then. Sometimes, though, your mood is triggered by more than just your surroundings. Your hormones, which are chemicals that move through your body and control the actions of every organ, can be a big factor in your mood. If your hormones are not balanced, chances are good you’ll feel anxiety, pressure, anger, or fear. Many things contribute to hormone levels, including the foods you consume. Take a look at a few of the most impressive mood-boosting foods you should be consuming.

Delicious Mood Boosting Foods

1: Chocolate

It’s on everyone’s list of must-have treats and there’s a reason for that. Chocolate contains a high level of antioxidants, which are components that help to cleanse the cells. What doctors know is that small amounts of chocolate can help to reduce the stress hormone racing through the body. Cortisol, which is that stress hormone, controls many emotions. A study done in Switzerland found that individuals who consumed 1.4 ounces of chocolate every day for two weeks saw a reduction in cortisol levels.

2: Carbohydrates

Sometimes, you want that feel-good meal after a long day at work. Often times, comfort foods include a large number of carbohydrates in them. Carbs are important for overall health, especially whole grains. Carbs create serotonin in the body, which is the hormone that helps us feel good. Those who are on low carb diets, for example, tend to suffer from more anxiety and depression than those who are on high carb diets.

3: Saffron

Saffron is one of the most unique flavors in spices and it is also one of the best tools for boosting moods specifically in women who are menstruating. Saffron works as an antidepressant and has even been compared to some prescription-strength medications given to those who struggle with depression. Researchers believe that saffron works in the same way Prozac does in that it helps to encourage serotonin production in the body.

4: Teas

Choose from a range of tea flavors as long as high-quality leaves are used. Caffeinated black, green, or even oolong tea is another way to improve the mood. More specifically, tea helps to stimulate the mind and clears your thoughts. Tea contains theanine, which is an amino acid, read more about the benefits of theanine here. This component works along with caffeine to boost focus. If you enjoy this beverage, drink as much as five to six cups a day to get the best mood-stimulating benefit.

5: Whole fruits and vegetables

You’ve heard it before by a healthy diet is one that contains a rainbow of colored fruits and vegetables. What we know is that the nutrients found in whole foods (not frozen, canned, or processed) help contribute to not only physical health but mental well-being. Fruits and vegetables with high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, Folate and Vitamin B nutrients are all good for your mental health.

Eat Right To Feel Right

For all of these reasons, individuals should eat a well-balanced diet that’s rich in fruits and vegetables. When you are feeling overwhelmed and stressed, it’s okay to reach for that chocolate, in moderation of course!