5 Foods To Eat To Feel Good And Boost Your Mood

What Foods To Eat To Feel Good?

When it comes to managing how you feel, there are various foods to eat to feel good. Studies have found that certain foods elicit a calming effect based on how their nutrient content interacts with the body.

There are, of course, other factors that can help if you do suffer from low moods or depression. These range from getting enough sleep, meditation and exercising, to striking a healthy balance in your professional, social and personal life. Do take time to consider what you eat. Here are 5 foods to eat to feel good and boost your mood.

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5 Foods To Eat To Feel Good And Boost Your Mood

1. Walnuts

Rich in healthy fats and protein, walnuts are a healthy snack option over salt-laden crackers and potato chips. While most nuts and seeds are good at fighting depression, walnuts have an edge due to their high content of omega-3 fatty acids. Researchers have found that there is a correlation between this nutrient and healthy brain function. Some studies report high occurrences of depressive disorders in communities that don’t  get enough of omega-3 fatty acids from available local foods. Therefore, if walnuts are within reach, ensure you get your fill and acquire enough omega-3 to help you combat anxiety and stress.

2. Chocolate

One widespread notion about chocolate is that it’s one of the best comfort foods to eat to feel good. Well, there is some truth in this idea. The explanation behind how chocolate makes people happy is in its chemical nature. Nutrition researchers discovered that chocolate affects the brain by releasing neurotransmitters that have a positive effect on human emotions. One of these is serotonin, which is known to uplift mood.

Chocolate also triggers the release of endorphins in the brain, which relieve pain and induce feelings of euphoria. It has even been found to stimulate production of phenylethylamine, a neurotransmitter that affects blood pressure and glucose levels to arouse emotions similar to those that a person experiences during romantic affairs.

If chocolate is your thing and you’re watching your weight, opt for dark chocolate as it’s very rich and smaller amounts will give you the fix you need.

3. Turkey

It’s the level of tryptophan contained in turkey that makes it such a good food for boosting the mood. Tryptophan is a type of amino acid present in various protein-rich foods. It plays a vital role in the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter your body produces. Eating turkey and other foods rich in tryptophan more often can ensure your body is producing enough serotonin, which will ultimately help you maintain high spirits and prevent low moods.

4. Green Tea

Having a bad day? Green tea is an excellent drink to help you cope with stress and prevent depression. The magic ingredient that gives green tea its anti-stress and relaxation benefits is Theanine. This amino acid is even used to treat anxiety and hypertension.

5. Low Fat Dairy

Nutrition experts know that low fat dairy products lower cholesterol intake, which in turn reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular disorders. However, the depression fighting capabilities of low fat dairy products can be traced back to their high content of vitamin D. Some studies have linked lack of vitamin D with depression, and low fat dairy products can ensure that you are getting enough of this essential mood-boosting nutrient.

Top Exercises to Help Your Mood

There is a growing body of scientific evidence to suggest that various foods have a calming effect on the body. Those mentioned above are just a handful of comfort foods you can try to experiment with and see how they affect your mood.

When we’re under a stressful situation, the hormone cortisol is released into our system. The constant cortisol in our system can cause health issues like weight gain, depression, high blood pressure, low sex drive and fatigue to name a few.  Download my free report, Top Exercises To Help Your Mood. When you control the cortisol, you can control the effects of it.