Foods that can Elevate your Mood

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People often turn to medications when they’re feeling down, but they may need to turn to their kitchen cupboards instead. The term “comfort food” is more than a cliché, as there is actually some science behind the fact that certain foods can help elevate your mood and ward off depression. The next time you’re feeling down, try one of the food choices that have been proven to help make you feel better mentally and emotionally.

Fish

Fish is naturally high in Omega 3 fatty acids, which provide a number of benefits when it comes to feeling better emotionally. Omega 3 oils instantly boost your mood, so you’ll begin feeling better right away. They also help to cushion brain cells, thereby keeping them from deteriorating as you age. This means that these fatty acids can actually help prevent Alzheimer’s disease and dementia as well. By incorporating salmon, herring, and mackerel into your diet on a regular basis, you’ll feel better now and for years to come.

Spinach

Spinach is high in Folic Acid and studies have shown this to be important for maintaining high levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is the chemical responsible for mood disorders, and keeping this chemical at a healthy level helps to stabilize one’s disposition. Spinach is also high in iron, and low levels of iron in the blood can cause a person to feel sluggish and tired, thereby being more prone to depression.

Cottage Cheese

Cottage cheese is high in two nutrients: Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D. Those who are deficient in either one of these two nutrients are more likely than others are to experience depression. In addition, cottage cheese also has whey protein, which researchers have found to improve cognitive function in people prone to stress. This ingredient helps you respond better to stress, while also working to increase your memory span.

Nuts

Certain nuts can be mood enhancers and might also help prevent cancer. Walnuts are especially helpful, as these contain Omega 3 oils. Brazil nuts are high in selenium, a mineral that helps to stabilize mood. A shortage of this trace mineral can sometimes lead to depression, so it’s important to keep a healthy level. Just a handful of either one of these two nuts is normally enough to make you start feeling better in no time.

Berries

When it comes to providing antioxidants, blueberries and strawberries are two of the best foods you can consume. Antioxidants help with brain function because they reduce the amount of free radicals found in the body, and have also been shown to help prevent cancer. In addition, strawberries help promote stable insulin levels, which can prevent you from becoming irritable or fatigued. Cherries also contain antioxidants, and boost serotonin and melatonin levels as well. As a result, they help to promote healthy sleep, which in turn means fewer mood swings because you are not fatigued.

Pumpkin Seeds

These snacks are high in magnesium, and this mineral is essential for a number of reasons. First, magnesium helps people react more positively to stress because it is believed to reduce heart palpitations that can occur if you are extremely anxious. Magnesium also promotes healthy sleep and getting the proper amount of sleep enhances your overall well-being mentally and physically.

Dark Chocolate

This delicious treat is loaded with antioxidants which help your brain function normally. It contains properties that help to raise serotonin levels almost immediately. Chocolate also contains caffeine, which can provide a temporary boost in energy.

The next time you’re feeling down, don’t’ head to the doctor. Instead, head to the grocery store to pick up some mood-boosting foods!