3 FOODS TO BRIGHTEN YOUR MOOD

Everyone goes through stages of having low mood, and sometimes all it takes is a change in your food. Good nutrition is an integral part of maintaining health. Here are 3 great foods that can help lift your mood, energise your body and release endorphins!

   Dark chocolate

       Everyone loves chocolate and it’s no mystery why we crave it when we are feeling tired or down. Raw cacao contains so many wonderful vitamins and minerals which are actually great for us. One main mineral is magnesium which is fantastic for enhancing relaxation. One study demonstrated that older men who ate dark chocolate had increased feelings of happiness, optimism and overall psychological well being. So 1 or 2 pieces of dark chocolate (preferably above 70%) may be doing you more good than you knew.

    Fish

      The omega 3 fatty acids found in fish have been shown to increase mood by having beneficial effects on neurotransmission. They are also important for decreasing inflammation which can lead to depression. Animal models have shown an increase in serotonin and dopamine concentration in the frontal cortex after administration of omega 3 fatty acids. Fish should be consumed 2-3 times a week as part of a healthy diet.

 

  Whole grains 

       Whole grains such as amaranth, millet, buckwheat, brown rice and oats just to name a few are very beneficial to consume in moderation as part of a healthy diet. They are all fantastic for improving mood. They contain B vitamins, zinc and magnesium. These are all important for neurotransmitter synthesis which are necessary for positive mood. At least one serve of these grains should be included in your diet every day.

       So if you have been feeling a bit down, try incorporating these delicious foods into your daily diet and see what the wonders of food can do to your mood!