Food is so much more than simply fuel to keep your body going. Obviously, at its base, that’s what it does, however, it can also bring people a lot of joy. Sure, there’s the bliss that comes from eating something so scrumptious it feels like tiny angels dancing on your tongue, but this is about more than just taste.
The natural effects in certain foods can reduce your stress levels, combat depression and ease anxiety. The added bonus is that a lot of them are downright delicious.
So, on with the list.
1. Chocolate
Many people are going to think is the best news of all! Chocolate makes you happy and science backs up that claim. Experts believe the antioxidants in chocolate help reduce stress hormones, like cortisol. But, feel free to completely ignore the science, and just take away that chocolate is good for you – in moderation.
2. Carbs
Despite what you may have heard, carbs don’t make you fat, but they can make you happy. In a recent study, people who spent a year on a low-carb diet of only 20–40 grams of carbs per day experienced more depression, anxiety and anger than people on low-fat, high-carb diets. The study drew a correlation between carbs and serotonin production. Serotonin is a huge booster to your happiness. Bread, is there anything it can’t do?
3. Fruits and Vegetables
Let’s face it, this is a no brainer. We all know fruits and vegetables are good for every part of our bodies, brains and emotions. Studies have found that antioxidants in fruits and vegetables lower one’s risk of depression. Folate found in beans, citrus and dark greens, like spinach, can affect the neurotransmitters that impact mood.
4. Fish
We’ve always heard that fish was brain food, now we know it can make you happier, too. Oily, fatty fish and muscles are full of omega-3s, which alter brain chemicals like dopamine and serotonin. Dopamine is a chemical released in response to pleasurable experiences, while low levels of serotonin are linked with depression and aggression.
5. Saffron
A study aimed at the symptoms of PMS found that women taking a dose of saffron said their mood swings and depression were reduced by half. Earlier studies showed that saffron had natural antidepressant qualities comparable to pharmaceutical antidepressants like Prozac.
6. Coconut
Coconut is a natural stress relieve in aroma alone. It lowers heart rate and can lower blood pressure, at the same time, while also enhancing alertness and soothing responses to stress.
7. Tea
Tired? Feeling a little fuzzy? Grab yourself some caffeinated black, green or oolong tea and you may experience a more alert state of mind. Researchers believe theanine — an amino acid in these tea varieties — may work in conjunction with caffeine to boost attention and focus. There is a bit of catch, though: if you want to truly reap the benefits, the study’s results suggest drinking five to six cups of tea daily, so you’ll also be running back and forth to the bathroom all day.
So, there you have seven different foods – most of which are also delicious and, for the most part, healthy – that will give you a natural boost and enhance your mood.
Lorne Marr is a fitness enthusiast and blogger. Visit his site at http://lornemarrfitafter45.ca
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Lorne Marr is a fitness enthusiast and blogger. Visit his site at
http://lornemarrfitafter45.ca