We all have those days when our happiness evaporates into thin air and we feel trapped in a state of cheerlessness. Your favorite music, riveting television drama, cherished pet or even your closest friends can’t dispel the cloud of gloom that seems to have overshadowed your usual jovial self. If you’re looking for a way out of this dismal rut, why not help yourself to some happy food?
Yes, there is such a thing as happy food! Experts have identified several foods that elevate the levels of mood uplifting hormones within the body. Whether it is stress, tension, or anxiety that is putting a damper on your day, these natural mood boosters have what it takes to keep your spirits high.
So are you ready to find out which wonderful foods can help prevent future mood fluctuations? Why wait any longer, let’s delve right into them!
Stay Cheerful with Chocolates
We’re certain a lot of you expected to see chocolate in this list. This delicious treat is a favorite amongst people of all ages and for good reason too! Chocolate is enriched with compounds that combat the negative effects of stress on your body. When you are stressed out your body releases a hormone called cortisol. One of the negative effects of cortisol is its ability to suppress the body’s production of ‘feel good’ hormones called endorphins. Research studies have uncovered that eating a small portion of chocolate daily, especially dark chocolate, can reduce stress levels and help you maintain a mood that is optimistic and stable.
Carbs For a Happier You
Many people associate carbs with fat accumulation, but that is far from the truth. Carbs are not a key source of fat accumulation. In fact, sufficient carbs in a well balanced diet act as natural mood elevators. Carbs stimulate the release of serotonin, a chemical that triggers ‘feel good’ sensations in the body. for all those who have been considering low carb diet plans, think again! Research studies have concluded that individuals who consume less than 40 grams (or less) of carbohydrates per day are more susceptible to feelings of depression, stress and anger. Low fat, high carb diets which include the consumption of natural foods such as fruits and vegetables, counter the presence of negative emotions and keep you feeling joyful.
Stock Up on Fresh Fruits and vegetables
Did you know that an unhealthy diet can increase the incidence of negative feelings and bad moods? So cut down on the processed foods, refined grains, fried foods and high fat dairy items and replace them with nutritious fruits and vegetables. According to experts, the rich mix of beneficial compounds in fruits and vegetables negates the effects of stress and other off-putting emotions. So not only does a healthy diet keep you physically fit and less susceptible to diseases, it also functions as a method for mood improvement.
Wash Away the Blues With Seafood
Oily fish and mussels, according to research, are two of the best seafood options for mood improvement. Species of fish that fall within the category of oily fish include salmon, rainbow trout, salmon and sardines. How do mussels and oily fish help to improve your mood? These food products contain compounds that stabilize the levels of serotonin in the brain, and trigger the release of dopamine. Serotonin levels need to be regulated because experts have discovered that low serotonin levels are closely associated with suicidal tendencies, depression and bouts of anger. Dopamine is naturally secreted by the body when a pleasant experience occurs and hence falls within the category of ‘feel good’ hormones.
If You’re Happy and You Know It…
So now that you know about the natural secret to happiness, be sure to spread the knowledge around. Including small portions of each of the discussed happy foods in your regular diet will leave you feeling positive, happy and in control of your life.