Have you ever wondered why certain foods just make you feel better? Or why, after consuming specific dishes, you’re left with a sudden surge of energy and happiness? Well, it isn’t just in your head. There’s a fascinating science behind how what we consume impacts our mood and overall well-being.
When you dive deep into the question, Can food lift your mood? the answer isn’t just a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’. The nutrients in the food we consume play a pivotal role in the production of neurotransmitters, the brain chemicals that determine our mood. Serotonin, often termed the ‘happiness chemical’, is significantly influenced by our dietary choices. Foods rich in tryptophan, for instance, can boost its production, leading to feelings of contentment and relaxation.
However, just as some foods can elevate our spirits, others can act as dampeners. So, when pondering, Do all foods make you feel happy?, the answer is a bit more complex. High sugar content, excessive caffeine, or even over-processed foods can cause mood swings, feelings of anxiety, or energy crashes.
Given these surprising revelations, we’re about to explore 10 most delicious foods that will boost your mood. These are not just flavorful delights but are packed with components that promise to elevate your spirits and energize your day.
10 – Turkey
Turkey is very rich in a particular amino acid called tryptophan. This is used in the production of serotonin, which is one of the biggest mood-boosting chemicals that your body makes. Turkey also contains melatonin, which is very important when it comes to getting enough sleep. It seems like turkey is for life, not just for Christmas and Thanksgiving!
09 – Asparagus
Much like turkey, asparagus aids the body with its serotonin production, due to a high level of tryptophan. Higher folate levels can also boost your happiness and help prevent depression; you can find plenty of folates in asparagus. If you’re worried about the rather unfortunate but well-known side effects of eating asparagus, don’t worry! It’s genetic, so there’s a good chance that you won’t experience any adverse results.
08 – Oats
If you don’t already start your day with a bowl of oats, maybe you should! It releases its goodness into the bloodstream very slowly – not only does this mean that you’ll have lots of energy to keep you going throughout the day, but it will help to keep your sugar levels steady too. Your mood will benefit from it, as you won’t experience that crash and comedown that you’d get after a quick sugar rush.
07 – Spinach
There are countless reasons why leafy green vegetables such as spinach are good for you. Its properties are amazing for the skin and it contains plenty of B vitamins. Once again, these all-important vitamins help keep your serotonin levels up, so help to keep depression at bay.
06 – Sunflower seeds
There are so many different things that you can do with sunflower seeds, so it’s really easy to introduce more into your diet. You can use them everywhere from baked in breads to as a tasty snack covered in chocolate; the possibilities are endless. The best thing about sunflower seeds is that they are rich in Omega-3, which gets your brain working at top speed.
05 – Mussels
This unusual type of seafood is one of the best sources of vitamin B12 on the planet. Why is this so important? It protects your brain, meaning that it will continue to fire on all cylinders for as long as possible. Mussels also contain a whole host of other vitamins and minerals which your thyroid needs to keep you happy and energized.
04 – Yoghurt
Your first reaction might not be to think of yoghurt as a particularly healthy food – it is a dairy product, after all. However, it’s the calcium levels which are really important. Some yoghurts contain more calcium than milk! Low levels of calcium can cause irritability and depression, so by eating yoghurt and keeping your calcium levels topped up, you’ll keep your mood up, too.
03 – Oysters
Oysters are well known for the aphrodisiacal properties, but that’s not where the good stuff ends. Eating oysters does your brain a world of good, for two main reasons. Firstly, they contain tyrosine – an amino acid which increases brain efficiency. This is enhanced by the amount of zinc in oysters, which is necessary for brain function and energy levels. As you can see, oysters can make you feel good in more ways than one!
02 – Bananas
Bananas have a whole host of benefits, none more so than the fact that they are packed full of potassium. When you’re stressed your potassium levels plummet, so eating a banana will keep you calm and chilled out. As if that wasn’t enough, they’re very low in calories, so they can keep your conscience happy as well as your mood!
01 – Dark chocolate
I’m sure it comes as no surprise to hear that chocolate makes you feel great! It actually releases endorphins, which give you the same feeling of happiness as when things heat up in the bedroom. It’s best to eat chocolate in moderation, and to opt for some with a high percentage of cocoa. With only a small amount of dairy, it’s practically a vegetable!
Food as Your Calming Companion
The therapeutic role of food isn’t a new concept. Ancient civilizations used certain foods and herbs to treat ailments, including mood disorders. Today, we see a resurgence of this age-old wisdom, backed by scientific evidence.
So, what food calms your mood? Think of foods that are a powerhouse of antioxidants, rich in magnesium, or loaded with omega-3 fatty acids. Blueberries, for instance, are laden with antioxidants known to reduce stress and anxiety. Magnesium-rich foods like spinach or nuts can act as natural relaxants, helping in nerve and muscle function and balancing the stress hormone cortisol.
But, why does food relieve stress? It’s due to the intricate dance between our gut and brain. The food we eat impacts our gut health, which in turn communicates with our brain, influencing our mood. Probiotic-rich foods, for example, can boost gut health, leading to a better mood. Additionally, certain foods lead to the release of endorphins, our body’s natural painkillers and mood elevators.
Natural Mood Boosters: Beyond Just Food
In the quest for happiness and well-being, while food is a formidable ally, it’s not the only player. There are several ways to boost your mood naturally, ensuring a balanced and joyous life.
Firstly, the role of physical activity can’t be stressed enough. Engaging in exercises, whether it’s a gentle yoga routine, a brisk walk, or an intense workout session, releases endorphins. These chemicals combat stress and promote feelings of euphoria.
Then there’s the power of sunshine. Just a few minutes under the sun can lead to Vitamin D production, linked with mood regulation and prevention of mood disorders. But it’s not just about the physical. Mental and emotional practices, like meditation, gratitude journaling, or engaging in hobbies, can be equally potent.
Furthermore, connecting with nature, whether it’s tending to a garden, taking nature walks, or even listening to natural sounds, can have a profound calming effect.
Another aspect to consider is the power of rest. Proper sleep, breaks during work, and even short power naps can rejuvenate the mind, keeping mood dips at bay.
Lastly, the importance of social connections, be it with friends, family, or even pets, is undeniable. Sharing a laugh, having deep conversations, or just being in the presence of loved ones can uplift spirits like nothing else.
Combining these natural mood-boosting strategies with the right dietary choices ensures a comprehensive approach to happiness and well-being.
source: Hgha.com