We all have foods that make us feel better when we’re down. Maybe it’s a chocolate bar, or a glass of wine, or a pint of ice cream. But what about foods that can actually boost our mood and make us happier in the long term?
Tasty foods and happy feelings may seem like an obvious pairing, but the truth is, we aren’t always eating for pleasure. And if we’re not careful, the brain chemistry of our favorite foods may be leaving us feeling more anxious and depressed.
Don’t worry — there are some simple, healthy tweaks to your diet that can help you eat for happiness.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is high in flavonoids which are powerful antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and may even improve memory. Because of its ability to reduce stress hormones, dark chocolate can help you relax while providing the energy needed to tackle a stressful situation.
Eggs
Eggs provide a solid dose of protein which has been shown to increase satiety while reducing hunger cravings. They’re also loaded with choline which can improve brain function as well as folate.
Nuts and nut butter
The protein in nuts can help your body release endorphins, which help relieve depression and stress. Nut butter has lots of natural oils and fats that make it more filling, so it’s hard to overeat it — which is great for your waistline, too.
Tuna
While often a food to avoid on a diet, tuna is one of the best sources of tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin, which helps us to feel happy and relaxed. Tuna is also rich in omega-3 fats, which have been shown to improve our moods.
Blueberries
This fruit is packed with fiber and antioxidants, so it’s a good choice for your health in general. What’s more is blueberries help fight stress-related depression by increasing the production of GABA, which makes you feel calm and relaxed.
