Sometimes, we turn to food when we are feeling under the weather, and sometimes, those foods will not help in making us feel any better. However, there are some foods that will assist in boosting your mood.
According to Healthline, research on the relationship between nutrition and mental health has been emerging. However, it is important to note that mood can be influenced by many factors. Such factors include stress, the environment, poor sleep, genetics, mood disorders, and nutritional deficiencies. Therefore, it is not that easy to determine whether or not food can get your frown turned upside-down.
However, the publication states that certain foods have been shown to improve overall brain health and certain mood disorders. Here are five such foods.
Dark chocolate
Chocolate contains many compounds that are sure to boost your mood. Its sugar may also improve mood since it is a quick source of fuel for your brain.
This sweet treat has a high hedonic rating. This means that its pleasurable taste, texture, and smell can promote a good mood. Dark chocolate is higher in flavonoids and lower in added sugar, unlike milk chocolate which contains added ingredients like sugar and fat.
Bananas
This fruit is high in vitamin B6, which helps synthesise feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. Bananas also contain fibre and sugar. When paired, the sugar is slowly released into the bloodstream, allowing for stable blood sugar levels and better mood control. If blood sugar levels are too low, people may feel irritable and have mood swings.
Coffee
A hot cup of java provides a list of compounds, including caffeine and chlorogenic acid, that may keep your spirits high. Some research suggests that switching to decaffeinated coffee may even have an effect on your mood.
Berries
Berries are rich in antioxidants and phenolic compounds which play a significant role combating oxidative stress (an imbalance of harmful compounds found in the body.) It also has disease-fighting anthocyanins, which may lower your risk of depression.
Fatty fish
Salmon and albacore tuna are rich in two types of omega-3s — docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). These types of omega-3s can help lower the risk of depression.
