Five Foods that can Instantly Cheer You Up

Is the long and bleak winter of your life leaving you a little blue? Cheer up – a sunnier disposition is possibly as close as your refrigerator. While the effect food has on our health and physical well-being is undeniable, it has been proven that food can affect our emotional and provide an instant cheer up. The adage – you are what you eat – perfectly depicts the relation between food and health. You can eat your way out of the unhappy times in your life.

The following five tasty solutions work to lift your low moods and shake off the blues.

1. Bananas

Bananas are a rich source of potassium as well as magnesium. They contain starchy carbohydrates that help sustain a good mood. The natural sugars present in bananas are quickly released in the bloodstream and act as a source of instant energy.

2. Walnuts

Walnut is an anti-oxidant rich nut which is an excellent source of serotonin-boosting omega 3 fatty acids. Serotonin is associated with a feeling of happiness and well being. Walnuts are also a rich source of magnesium, which helps stabilize mood by regulating the blood sugar level in the body. It is also helpful in curing the symptoms associated with depression – including anxiety, irritability, insomnia, agitation, etc.

3. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is considered the ultimate comfort food. It is known to enhance the production of mood elevating chemical dopamine in the brain. It is good for an instant boost in concentration, mood, and energy.

4. Salmon

Salmon is great for the heart. It is packed with omega-3 fatty acid and vitamin D. These two nutrients are known to increase the level of the feel-good neurotransmitter serotonin in the brain. It is specifically recommended to individuals suffering from depression. Studies have shown that a diet rich in salmon helps reduce the feeling of sadness and hostility in people over time. People suffering from acute depression should include salmon in two to three meals per week.

5. Oysters

Oysters are considered to be an aphrodisiac by many. They not only create feelings of love in some, but also carry exceptionally high levels of zinc. Zinc is a mineral that is required in trace amount in the body, but plays a very vital role of calming the body and stabilizing the mood. Under stress, zinc level tends to get depleted in the body. This leads to mood swings and agitation. In such situations, intake of a food rich in zinc can help ease the anxiety and have an overall antidepressant effect on the body.

When in the worst of moods, do not neglect your diet; a balanced diet can minimize nutrient deficiencies in the body and naturally elevate your mood. Reduce intake of trans-fats, and increase your intake of good fats like omega-3 fatty acid. Avoid sugary foods and low carb-diets. Food has a direct relation with our moods and eating the right kind of diet can go a long way in curing you of a bad one.