Mood improves when we are fed the right foods. But the problem is, there are so many options to choose from. You can select from the healthiest options, or you can choose from the fattiest foods. If you are on a diet, it is very important to choose the right foods for you.
Air-popped Corn
Taking a break from your screen-based entertainment and having a bowl of air-popped corn is a great way to unwind. It’s a tasty snack that won’t weigh you down, and it’s also low-fat. And it’s easy to make. You can even do it in the microwave.
There are many different types of popcorn to choose from, but the best is probably air popped. In addition to being healthy, air-popped corn is also the cheapest. You can buy air-popped corn from the supermarket or make your own with a popcorn maker. You can also use a microwave to make air-popped corn.
Oats for Mental Health
Several studies have shown that oats are good mood food, which helps maintain a healthy nervous system. They are packed with protein, fiber, and the mood-boosting mineral selenium. Oats are also rich in magnesium, which is a natural mood booster.
- Oats also have a low glycemic index, meaning they do not release glucose quickly into the bloodstream.
- This helps control blood sugar levels, regulating mood swings and fatigue.
- In addition to preventing a sugar crash, complex carbohydrates help to maintain energy levels.
- Oats are also rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that produces serotonin, a feel-good neurotransmitter.
- Serotonin has been found to alleviate depression symptoms and is also a key factor in sleep.
- Tryptophan is found in various foods, including peanuts, sesame seeds, and cashews.
Healthy Blueberries
Whether you are looking for a quick pick-me-up or looking to improve your overall health, eating blueberries may be just what you are looking for. This tasty fruit is rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients, which help prevent heart disease and maintain a healthy weight.
The benefits of eating blueberries include: lowering blood pressure, protecting the body against cancer, and strengthening the immune system. They also are a good source of vitamin C, folic acid, and manganese. In addition, they boost serotonin and monoamine oxidase, which are the enzymes required for the production of dopamine and serotonin.
The blueberry fruit is particularly rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage. It also contains vitamin C and vitamin K.
Dark Chocolate
Several studies have shown that dark chocolate improves mood, but little is known about the effects of dark chocolate on the brain. While it is known that dark chocolate contains flavonoids, the impact of chocolate consumption on brain function is likely to differ depending on the type of chocolate and the amount of chocolate consumed.
In a study, researchers from the Loma Linda University Adventist Health Sciences Center examined the effect of dark chocolate on mood. They found that consumption of 85% dark chocolate daily decreased negative mood. In a similar study, researchers from the Swinburne University of Technology found that cocoa flavanols increased mood.
Nuts to Improve Mood
Mood-boosting nuts are known to improve both physical and mental health. These little powerhouses contain nutrients that enhance memory, alleviate depression and irritability, and increase the level of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that reduces anxiety and promotes feelings of happiness.
Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, melatonin, and other nutrients that support overall brain health. Studies have shown that walnuts can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease, improve obesity, improve diabetes, and reduce depression.
Nuts are good sources of tryptophan, an amino acid that’s a precursor to serotonin. This nutrient is also found in milk, salmon, and turkey. Combined with other nutrients, walnuts are thought to increase the production of melatonin, which is an important sleep-regulating hormone.
Versatile Spinach
Traditionally known as a functional food, spinach is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are good for your health. In addition, it also has anti-microbial, anti-hyperlipidemic, and anti-anemia properties. It is often considered a superfood because of its many constituents.
Spinach contains magnesium, which has been shown to help improve mood and promote sleep.
Additionally, magnesium is also known to help reduce anxiety and muscle tension. Spinach contains a hefty amount of Vitamin C, which is known to support the immune system.
Spinach has also been shown to reduce inflammation in aging rats. Spinach also contains several antioxidants, which are known to protect the brain from age-related damage.