When the going gets tough even the tough reach for a cup cake. Instead of making this blog post about comfort food (cakes, cookies, mountains of chocolate, etc.), I decided to blog about foods that boosts your mood. There is a direct correlation between our food and our mood. Being unaware of the importance of eating proper nutrients to function, could be the reason why a person's mood and attitude goes bonkers. There are actually certain foodsand snacks that can be eaten to boost mood, combat PMS, and even knockout depression. Because I care about your development and happiness, yes YOU ... here is a super charged A-List of awesome foods that can help you walk on sunshine even on a cold cloudy day.
Research shows that people who eat processed foods have a high level of depression. So be sure to buy fresh fruits and vegetables.
Consume more Fruits & Vegetables: At least Seven Servings Per Week Research shows that emotional health rises with fruit and vegetable consumption (it's best to buy from the Farmers Market vs the Super Market. When you purchase fruit from farmers it's more likely that you are buying real fruit and not genetically modified items). Also, according to research your mental well being and your fruit consumption is directly related.
Foods rich in Calcium and Vitamin D are a natural mood booster. If you're lactose intolerant be sure to grab a Calcium and Vitamin D supplement to help supply you with the levels your body needs. During a women's period of ovulation her Calcium count is low. Balancing calcium and Vitamin D levels can aid in PMS moodiness.
Salmon: 2 to 3 times a week. Omega 3 Fatty Acids help combat depression. Studies suggest that diets high in Omega 3 polyunsaturated fat may decrease the risk of muscular degeneration as you age and Fish Oil may reduce stress related aggression. Fish also reduces PMS Symptoms.
Sunflower Seeds are rich in selenium which is the ultimate feel better nutrient.
Carbohydrates increase levels of serotonin. Serotonin is responsible for elevating your mood.
Here is a small quick vegetarian recipe to help aid in your mood boosting (vegans remove eggs and yogurt). This recipe is rich in Vitamin B and Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Flaxseed Falafel Sandwhich
Vitamin B6 and Omega 3 Fatty Acids
recipe from health.com |
Ingredients:
Flaxseed,
chickpeas,
garlic,
parsley,
lemons,
cumin,
coriander,
red pepper,
breadcrumbs,
eggs,
olive
oil,
pitas,
lettuce,
fat-free yogurt,
tomatoes,
cucumber,
green onions,
cilantro,
jalapeno pepper
More food choices are:
Tofu
Brown Rice, and Chickpeas are both rich in Magnesium, Vitamin B6, & Manganese which aid with PMS, irritability, and depression.
Spinach
Sea Salt (not in high amounts but research shows depression in those deficient of salt)
Folic Acid
Beans are rich in magnesium and helps to regulate serotonin.
Oatmeal
Apples
& Almonds
Do you know of any other foods that are mood boosters?
Altering your diet to help relieve everyday stress and anxiety is a great way to take responsibility for your mental, physical, and emotional well being. You don't have to wait until the peak of spring or summer to bloom with an awesome attitude. Start by eating the right foods to boost your mood.