Our mood can be altered depending on the kind of food we consume. If you ever feel down and depressed, the following foods will do your mood a world of good – here is the top 10 list of good mood foods.
10 Amazing Good Mood Foods
1. Rice Pudding
Rice pudding is a great good mood food as it is high in calcium that helps in keeping your mood balanced. It also reduces the discomfort caused by PMS (premenstrual syndrome). The dish is also important for healthy functioning of the nerves.
2. Chillies
Endorphins are the feel-good neurotransmitters that are released by the brain, and these neurotransmitters are triggered by capsaicin – the compound that gives that element of fire to chillies. Chillies can also be consumed to improve sleep. One fresh red or green chilli a day will keep the stress away.
3. Seeds and Walnuts
Pumpkin seeds, linseeds and walnuts are high in omega-three fatty acids and monounsaturated fats that are very important in maintaining the health of brain cells. Even neuron communication will be improved by consuming seeds and nuts. These good mood foods can be consumed by sprinkling them on yoghurt, porridge or rice dishes, or also as snacks.
4. Honey
Honey has a sugar called fructose that aids the body in recovering from a hangover. It also breaks down alcohol at a quick pace. You may add a couple of tablespoons to your porridge or slice of toast.
5. Asparagus
Folic acid is present in asparagus, and it is an ideal starter. The food is essential for normal functioning of the nervous system. It also helps in maintaining healthy RBCs (red blood cells), thereby preventing energy-sapping and mood anemia.
6. Roast venison
Roast venison will help in boosting your intake of iron. It contains lots of proteins and vitamin B and helps in maintaining healthy functioning of the nervous system. Iron deficiency results in poor concentration, fatigue and irritability. For those who do not eat meat, iron can be found in pulses, fortified cereals, dried figs, leafy greens and nuts.
7. Minestrone
Whether you make it at home or purchase it from the market, minestrone soup is packed with antioxidants and it great for keeping your blood-sugar levels and appetite in check. It also helps in combating cravings for carbohydrates that are known to bring down your mood.
8. Chocolate
For many, chocolate is the ultimate good mood food. It has opioid neurotransmitters that stimulate to give intense pleasure. Dark chocolate can be consumed for a high antioxidant dose and it also helps in building dopamine.
9. Mackerel
You will have a higher chance of depression if you do not consume fish. The omega-three fatty acids that are present in mackerel help in the optimization of blood flow and by brain cell communication. It also helps in reducing inflammation and buffers the brain against bad mood. Oily fish like salmon, mackerel, pilchards, trout, fresh tuna and herring are the best sources of omega-three fats. Lobster, crab and prawns are also great good mood foods.
10. Eggs
Eggs contain chlorine and acetylcholine – a neurotransmitter that is important for general functioning of the brain and memory cells. Eggs are also rich in vitamin B12, providing enough energy and happiness.
What are the good mood foods for you – share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Author Grace is an expert associated with The Good Food Network, the cookshop which organic food items and chocolates.
Photos: Noel Feans, [cipher], Aih, Diekatrin, Luftholen, Muffet, Wildxplorer, Theilr, Sean Rogers1, KeeryPhoto
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