If one of your goals is to feel happier on a daily basis, continue reading to discover how incorporating a variety of superfoods into your diet, can help you feel happier and less stressed, in the long term.
Foods That Make You Happy:
1. Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are packed full of amino acids which help your brain produce serotonin. Serotonin is a powerful natural neurotransmitter which increases your happiness levels. So if you’re interested in feeling happier on an everyday basis, it’s well worth snacking on pumpkin seeds or sprinkling pumpkin seeds on your side salads.
2. Lamb
If you’re a prolific meat eater, it’s well worth adding lamb to your weekly menu as lamb is packed full of iron which helps keep your mood stable. Iron also increases your focus and mental clarity, which will help you feel less stressed.
3. Asparagus
Not only does asparagus contain amino acids, which produce serotonin, just like pumpkin seeds but asparagus is also packed full of folate which can help people who suffer from depression, decrease their symptoms by up to 50%. So if you’re looking for a healthy vegetable which can help increase your mood, it’s well worth serving up grilled asparagus on a regular basis.
4. Cherry tomatoes
Cherry tomatoes’ skin contains lycopene, a healthy antioxidant which can protect your brain from inflammation, which can lead to depression. So it’s well worth eating bite-sized cherry tomatoes on the go or placing cherry tomatoes in a variety of meals. You can use cherry tomatoes in salads, in pasta dishes and in sandwiches, wraps, and burgers.
5. Salmon
Salmon is loaded with omega 3 fatty acids, which your body requires to run efficiently. As a bonus omega 3 fatty acids can help your body rid itself of inflammation, which will, in turn, help you feel healthier and happier than normal. If you’re interested in incorporating salmon into your diet, it’s well worth eating grilled salmon served with a generous side salad, on a weekly basis.
6. Grilled chicken
Grilled chicken contains a variety of ingredients which will increase your energy levels and in turn your mood. Examples of some of the energy inducing ingredients contained in chicken include potassium, zinc and vitamin B6. As an added benefit, grilled chicken is low in fat and is a great option for those who are looking to stick to a nutritionally balanced diet.
7. Avocado
Eating avocado on its own, in guacamole or on toast, will boost your mood as avocado contains a variety of monosaturated fats which are known to decrease individual’s anxiety levels. So if you often feel anxious or stressed, it’s well worth introducing dishes which contain avocado into your diet.
8. Apricots
Apricots contain vitamin C and beta-carotene, both of which are known to decrease individuals anxiety levels. If you’re looking to enjoy apricots on the go, it’s well worth stocking up on tasty dried apricots.
So if you’d love to feel happier and more energetic on a daily basis, it’s definitely well worth adding the 8 delicious, healthy foods listed above into your diet.