What makes certain foods mood-elevating seems based on whether they contain essential ingredients such as; Omega-3 fatty acids, tryptophan, vitamin D, or B vitamins. Get in a better state of mind by choosing foods that are high in phytochemicals and nutrients. These will help you deal with the trials of everyday anxiety. Here, below are the top 10 superfoods that boost your mood quickly, naturally and without any adverse reactions that can endanger your health – not to mention that these superfoods are also more affordable.
These are top 10 superfoods that boost your mood.
10. Walnuts
Walnuts are known to improve cell health due to the fact that they are the richest nuts in essential fats. Besides the fact that they elevate mood, ten walnuts a day can properly optimize the cell wall composition and lower blood cholesterol levels. Which will automatically improve the blood circulation, treat depression and give an overall sense of happiness and well-being. The researchers found that the men who ate the walnuts “experienced improvement in sperm vitality, motility, and morphology,”. While those who didn’t eat the nuts “saw no change,”.
9. Poultry
Just like bananas, chicken and turkey also contain high amounts of tryptophan which increase the serotonin levels. In addition to this, chicken and turkey are also very rich in tyrosine, an amino acid that helps the body cope with stress more efficiently. Also, it must be mentioned that tyrosine is the building block for norepinephrine and dopamine, two important neurotransmitters that can influence mood. If you increase your intake of tyrosine, then you will automatically improve your mood and prevent depression in the long run!
8. Dark Leafy Greens
Consuming dark leafy greens can also treat anxiety and depression. Due to the high amounts of acid, which elevates low mood and reduces fatigue as well. In addition to folic acid, dark leafy greens like romaine lettuce or spinach which ensure the proper functioning of the nerves and muscles. Besides, recent studies have shown that low magnesium levels can cause a drop in the levels of serotonin, therefore causing depression.
7. Salmon
If you’re not a vegetarian, the best way to get a good dose of omega-3s into your diet is through salmon. Not a fan of salmon? Tuna and herring boast a decent amount of the fatty acids as well. Numerous studies have revealed the fact that people who are deficient in Omega 3 and Omega 6 are far more susceptible to anxiety and depression than those who have normal levels of fatty acids in the body. Salmons are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, and this elevates the mood and keep the brain healthy in the long run.
6. Cherries
Cherries are just about in season. Whether you like them in pie, trail mix or just as they are. Cherries are here to chill you out! Besides containing a ton of antioxidants, they also provide natural melatonin and serotonin, compounds that basically de-stress you and allow you sleep peacefully. So when you wake up in the morning, you’re more likely to be a happy camper.
5. Avocados
You probably know that avocados are an excellent source of healthful fats, that are known for raising the levels of dopamine and increasing endorphins. No matter if you consume avocados in the form of shakes or salad, this true superfood is perfect for lifting your mood when you feel blue!
4. Green Tea
Green tea has been used for thousands of years due to its numerous benefits. Just like berries, green tea is also very rich in antioxidants, amino acids and L-theanine, known for reducing stress and anxiety while improving the mood. If consumed on a regular basis, green tea can give a feeling of overall well-being. In addition to elevating mood, L-theanine found in green tea can also increase focus, memory as well as mental alertness. For a healthier, longer life doctors recommend one cup of green tea a day!
3. Bananas
Besides being a potassium powerhouse, Bananas contain high amounts of vitamins and minerals, as well as tryptophan which is known for raising serotonin levels. All the compounds found in bananas are mood-boosting. Vitamin B6 converts tryptophan into serotonin, the mood-lifting hormone. This way, you will not only feel better but you will also get a better night’s sleep. In a study at Oxford University, researchers found that women recovering from depression who were deficient in tryptophan had a higher chance of regressing back to depressive states. Bananas can and will treat depression if consumed properly. Also, they are a great source of iron, too.
2. Berries
Berries are full of antioxidants that support the proper functioning of the brain and improve the cognitive function. They are very efficient against depression. They promote positive energy, also stimulate the production of “feel-good enzymes” in the brain. The high amount of antioxidants also prevent cell oxidation caused by free radicals, and prevent premature aging. They keep your neural pathways running smoothly. While watching movie or feel sad, used blueberries instead of traditional popcorn, you will stay fit in the long run and feel happier.
1. Chocolate
Chocolate is magical! Dark chocolate can improve cognitive function, it can prevent Alzheimer and dementia and it can also boost your mood in a matter of minutes. The darker the chocolate you consume, the better. Dark chocolate slows down the production of stress hormone, and the anxiety levels automatically decrease. It also makes the brain release endorphins and also boosts the serotonin levels. This creates a feeling of well-being that lasts for several hours. According to a ton of studies, the chemical compounds in chocolate have similar effects on the brain as…marijuana! So don’t do drugs. Just eat chocolate. Also, an added bonus is that chocolate contains caffeine, so not only does it enhance your mood, but it skyrockets your energy.
All the above-mentioned foods have been scientifically proven to lift mood, therefore you can replace supplement and pills with one or more of these foods. If you are predisposed to depression and anxiety, you can easily prevent these bothersome provided that you understand the relationship between food and mood. Certain foods can not only boost the efficiency of anti-depressants, but they can even prevent relapse in the long run. Please leave a comment below.