Mood-Boosting Foods.

What we eat can have a profound effect on how we feel, and feeding our bodies the right sorts of foods can nourish our minds, too.
Here are just a few suggestions of mood-boosting foods to incorporate into your diet.

Dark Chocolate

Chocolate is rich in many mood-boosting compounds. It is high in health-promoting flavonoids, which have been shown to increase blood flow to the brain, reduce inflammation, and boost brain health, all of which may support mood regulation. Chocolate has a high hedonic rating, meaning that its pleasurable taste, texture, and smell may also promote good mood.

Bananas

Bananas are high in vitamin B6 which helps synthesise feel good neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. 1 large banana provides 16 grams of sugar and 3.5 grams of fiber. When paired with fiber, sugar is released slowly into your bloodstream, allowing for stable blood sugar levels and better mood control.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel and herring are rich in two types of omega-3s — DHA and EPA — that are linked to lower levels of depression. Omega-3s contribute to the fluidity of your brain’s cell membrane and appear to play key roles in brain development and cell signalling.

Berries

Berries pack a wide range of antioxidants and phenolic compounds, which play a key role in combatting oxidative stress — an imbalance of harmful compounds in your body. They’re particularly high in anthocyanins, a pigment that gives certain berries their purple-blue colour. Studies have associated a diet rich in anthocyanins with a lower risk of depression symptoms.

Nuts & Seeds

Nuts and seeds provide tryptophan, an amino acid responsible for producing mood-boosting serotonin. Certain nuts and seeds, such as Brazil nuts, almonds, and pine nuts, are good sources of zinc and selenium. Deficiency in these minerals, which are important for brain function, is associated with higher rates of depression.

Fermented Food

Fermented foods, which include kimchi, yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and sauerkraut, may improve gut health and mood. The fermentation process allows live bacteria to thrive in foods that are then able to convert sugars into alcohol and acids.During this process, probiotics are created. These live microorganisms support the growth of healthy bacteria in your gut and may increase serotonin levels.