Mood-Boosting Food
Did you know there’s a connection between the foods you eat and the way you feel? Your diet can have a huge impact on your mood and overall wellbeing, let’s take a closer look.
Foodies around the world would definitely unite over the notion that a good feed brings a sense of bliss. And while it is true that eating your favourite food can provide a temporary emotional lift, creating a more sustainable, consistent sense of wellbeing comes from eating healthy, nutritious foods. So before you reach for the cookies and chips for that little burst of happiness, consider how your daily eating and snacking habits could be changed to create a more long-term positive impact on your mind and mood.
Let’s get a taste of some sure-fire ways to boost your mood with food!
Probiotics
Probiotics are the good bacteria that live in your gut and aid digestion. They also support our immune system, and help us to better absorb nutrients. So, where can we find them? Yogurt is one of the best, and more accessible sources of probiotics. Others include fermented foods like; kombucha, kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso soup, but there are also probiotic supplements available. Studies have shown that people who consume or take probiotics have seen improvements in their stress levels and mental outlook, which can also be linked to having a happier stomach.
Greens and beans
Its one of the most important colours to have in your diet, so keep those greens up. Leafy greens like spinach and silverbeet contain magnesium which positively impacts your mood. Diets low in magnesium are linked to an increased risk of anxiety and depression. Some other magnesium rich foods include brazil nuts, beans, and chickpeas. Incorporate lentils and legumes into your meals for a prolonged energy hit that will help you avoid an afternoon slump.
Blueberries
Antioxidants protect your body from the effects of the not-so-good molecules that are produced when your body breaks down food. There are so many studies about the positive effects of a diet rich in antioxidants, and blueberries contain a high level of these juicy mood boosters. Other antioxidant-rich fruits include strawberries, watermelon, oranges, and plums, just to name a few.
Green Tea
Green tea promotes a state a calm by cleansing the body and assisting the regulation of blood sugar levels, which in-turn helps fight off sugar cravings. Try to get in the habit of swapping out coffee for green tea, it contains less caffeine, and loads of powerful antioxidants.
Nuts
Nuts are the perfect snack, so keep them handy at your desk for when you start to get peckish in the afternoon. Cashews, almonds, and hazelnuts are all high in the ever-important magnesium, which also keeps your blood sugar levels steady by helping the body process sugar into energy.
Chocolate
This seems like a no-brainer, right? Who doesn’t love chocolate? It’s true though, cocoa can help brighten our mood and bring a sense of contentment. Too much sugar can have a negative effect on our brains though, so it’s recommended you choose dark chocolate, but as long as you can keep the portions under control, choose whatever makes you happiest!
It’s all about choosing the right foods. What we eat makes a big difference to our overall mood, so fuel your brain and body the right way, every day.
