Mood Food: Healthy Foods That Lift Your Mood

Food can be a comfort when we get a bit overwhelmed, and almost every person knows the joy of indulging in the favorite snack after a bad day. However, for most of us, such snacks are often unhealthy. There is nothing unusual about that because feeling stressed makes the body crave salty and sugary things, which is why they’re often known as “comfort food”.

But, it doesn’t have to be that way. How to eat healthy? There are numerous healthy snacks and foods that can lift your spirits without hurting your wellbeing. For that reason, here is a list of healthy foods that can help you feel better in no time.

1. Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate has always been a symbol of elegance and refined desserts. For those who suffer from a sweet tooth, dark chocolate might not be the perfect go-to snack, but it’s a great alternative to those who wish to eat something satisfying and healthy. It contains many ingredients such as flavonoids that promote brain health and reduce inflammation in the body.

2. Bananas

If there’s one fruit that’s almost universally loved, it’s definitely bananas. They’re not only delicious but also rich in potassium and vitamin B, which is why they’re a popular snack choice among kids and adults alike. Bananas are also rich in fibre, and when you pair fibre and sugar, that can help stabilize blood sugar and mood. Also, greener bananas are rich in prebiotics, which makes them great for gut health.

3. Coffee

If there’s one item that people cannot live without, it’s definitely coffee. So it’s not surprising learning that drinking coffee can boost one’s mood since it has caffeine, a substance that prevents the brain from feeling tired. Therefore, drinking coffee in the morning suddenly makes sense.

However, it’s recommended to eat breakfast before coffee, since it’ll help you feel full, more energized, and focused until lunchtime. If planning breakfast and other meals are too stressful for you, checking out Satia Nutrition meals and tips is a great choice to get started. Remember that coffee can be a great mood lifter, but it should never replace a regular meal. Try the under sink reverse osmosis systems to make your coffee with improved taste.

4. Oats

Just like bananas, oats are a great source of fibre. One research showed that consuming about 2-6g grams of fibre for breakfast can improve mood and energy. And oats are an excellent breakfast option, as they can be used for oatmeal, granola, and many more meals.

If you want to treat yourself to a true fibre-rich, mood-boosting breakfast, feel free to mix oats with warm almond milk, and then add a banana and some dark chocolate. You’ll feel full and energized, and ready to conquer the day!

5. Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds are some of the healthiest ingredients you can use in your food preparation. They’re rich in vitamins and other nutrients that promote heart health and reduce the risk of some diseases. Some nuts are also rich in selenium and zinc, which might help fight depression and also promote healthy brain function. Seeds and nuts are also versatile, which is why they’re part of so many dishes, cakes, and sweets. You can also mix them with dried fruit to add some sweetness.

Conclusion

Your mood influences your behavior, which is why it’s important to pay attention to your emotions, especially in times of stress. Eating the right food can be helpful for your mental well-being, and foods from this list will surely help you feel better while promoting your health. Reaching out for unhealthy snacks is fine, as long as you find room to eat food that helps you feel fit, healthy, and full of energy.