Brighten Your Spirits with These Mood-Boosting Foods

What foods lifts your mood?

Blueberries

Blueberries are deliciously rich in antioxidants and have a positive effect on mood and cognitive function. Eat natural, add to porridge, yoghurt or smoothie.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts & seeds such as peanuts, almonds, pumpkin, and sesame seeds, are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that plays a role in the production of serotonin (happy hormone). Add to salads, cereal, porridge, soups, snacks.

Salmon

Oily fish such as salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which plays a role in brain health. Some research indicates that not enough omega-3 affects mood. Other omega-3 foods- flax seeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds and walnuts.

Natural unsweetened yoghurt & kefir

Yoghurt and kefir contain live active bacteria (probiotics. Research suggests that gut bacteria play a role in digestion, mood and overall energy. Have as a snack, add to smoothies, make salad dressings. Add nuts, seeds and raw cacao nibs or honey to yoghurt.

Raw Cacao

Raw cacao and cacao nibs are more readily available. Raw cacao contains flavonoids that have both cognitive and mood-supporting properties. Sprinkle some cacao nibs on your porridge, yoghurt or add to homemade granola.

Lentils

Lentils are rich in B-vitamins, which are key for mood and stress. They are packed with iron and folate. Lentils are a super source of protein. Add to soups, pasta, salads and spaghetti bolognese.