Genuine feel-good foods are often given a bad reputation as they are usually referred to as “healthy foods” and associated with distaste. The foods below have been proven to have mood-changing superpowers, which they achieve through the release of serotonin – a hormone released in the brain that is associated with happiness, low stress levels and sexual desire.
However, if you have always had a packet of jelly babies or a McDonald’s happy meal to make you feel good, this might work for you because you associate those foods with happiness, not because they genuinely make you happy. In the long run, unhealthy meals will not make you happy at all.
Chicken or Turkey
These two foods are good for you because they are rick in amino acids tryptophan, which helps your body generate serotonin. They are also rich in tyrosine, which is useful in lowering stress levels. Try a chicken stew or a turkey sandwich when feeling down.
Sweet Potato
Potatoes are carbohydrates, which are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids and B vitamins. These are great in enhancing mood and energy levels too. The sweetest thing about any potato is its versatility – it can be mashed, eaten whole and oven-baked, sliced into fries, etc.
Berries
Berries are packed with anti-oxidants and fibre, which will not only make you feel full but also help protect your body from cell and organ damage. Try a serving of mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, cranberries ) – fresh, dried or frozen – each day, to experience the full benefits.
Dark Chocolate
Filled with antioxidants, chocolate protects body cells and organs and can also increase blood flow to the brain and to the heart, proving great to people with high-blood pressure, anaemia and Type-2 diabetes. Taking 2-3 small servings of dark chocolate each week will help you feel great.
Fish (Salmon, Tuna, Sardines, Trout)
Fish, packed with omega-3 fatty acids, will help keep your brain healthy and also keep you in a happy mood. It will also help your brain cells to be more flexible, allowing the your brain messengers to work more effectively. Eat fish in a sandwich or stew for breakfast to give you an extra boost for the day
