Itsy, Bitsy Spider, Which Foods Do I Pick from Here?

Rely on Mood-elevating Foods for De-stressing Yourself

​‘Good mood’ foods are becoming popular and are completely different from comfort foods that we reach to, when we are stressed or unhappy. ‘Good mood’ foods are healthy foods that help to de-stress ourselves in this fast-paced world. Some things are beyond our control and it is up to us to utilize the things that are within our control, and food is one such thing that gives us positive results when used in the right way.

Why don’t you try these foods to stay calm and balanced to take the pressure off your shoulders?

Folic Acid: Almost 40% of people with depression lack folate and once they start consuming folic acid-rich foods, they feel happier. Research too shows a link between folate deficiency and low emotional health. One of the best sources of folate is sitting right in front of you in the kitchen-cooked lentils. One cup of cooked lentils fulfils 358 micrograms of the 400 micrograms of folate required per day. Other sources of folic acid include asparagus, oranges, avocados, beans and leafy greens.

Blueberries: Eating those luscious tiny blueberries rich in flavonoids and vitamin C can help boost mood and avoid depression in young people, according to a study. These berries are rich in anthocyanins, a flavonoid that gives these berries the blue color and are heart-healthy. Vitamin C can decrease blood pressure and cortisol levels that can go haphazard during times of high stress. Try mixing a handful of these berries in your oatmeal cereal or smoothie.

Dark Chocolate (70%): Yup, it’s true! You can bite a few chunks of these extra-dark chocolate to uplift your mood when you feel low as it interacts with the brain’s chemical messengers that play a vital role in regulating mood and energy. High in polyphenols and flavanols, dark chocolate puts you in a great mood and lowers your blood pressure too. Studies also prove that eating dark chocolates and almonds help uplift heart health. The details of this study are given at www.firsteatright.com. 

Edible Seeds Make a Great Salad Dressing

Seeds: Edible seeds such as pumpkin seeds, sesame, sunflower or flax seeds are rich in magnesium, a nutrient that is popularly known to increase well-being and stabilize emotions. You can add the seeds of your choice to garden-fresh salads or prepare your own seed butter.
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Chamomile and/or Lavender Tea: Sipping a cup of freshly made chamomile and/or lavender tea can calm your nerves, decrease anxiousness and promote sleep. They are also caffeine-free and hence, totally safe to rely upon whenever you feel stressed. It can be your go-to drink first thing in the morning after getting up or the last thing in the night before going to bed.

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