It’s no doubt that we’re going through hard times. The current world crisis has most of us staying in our homes nearly the entire day. We have to work harder than ever to maintain a positive attitude and a healthy mood. Both for ourselves, the people around us, and for all of the people of the world.
There are many things that have a positive impact on our mood. Taking time to exercise. Effectively managing our stress. Taking time to be with others that we care about. All of these things play a big role. But eating the right foods can have a larger impact than you would imagine. And because our passion is food, we decided to put together a list of some foods that can help you maintain a healthy mood.
These specific foods were chosen because of their connection with the neurotransmitters in the brain that work to regulate your mood. Specifically serotonin, which is the anti-depression neurotransmitter (as you’ll remember from our previous posts). Eating the right diet mixed with the other things above can make a big difference for your life, especially right now. Here is our list of mood boosting foods:
Salmon
We constantly hear that salmon is one of the most nutritionally-dense foods that a person can eat. The main reason is because of its concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy fats are the building blocks of our neurotransmitters, including serotonin. Salmon can be more expensive than other food options, but most budgets should allow for the ability to add this superfood to the plate once a week.
Walnuts
The walnut is another food high in omega-3 fatty acids. Walnuts are great because they are so versatile. They can be added to salads, to your morning oatmeal, or they can be packed in a little baggie for a snack throughout the day. They can easily be added to any diet.
Broccoli
This leafy green vegetable breaks down into B vitamins in the body. And B- vitamins help with the production of serotonin. Broccoli is a great food because it is so widely available in so many forms. It can be eaten raw and can also be cooked in a variety of ways.
Ground Turkey
Ground turkey is high in protein. Protein breaks down into amino acids in the body. And amino acids help with the replenishment of neurotransmitters. Ground turkey can be easily made standalone on the stove in a pan, or even better yet, made with vegetables as a part of a stir-fry. It’s a healthy and inexpensive protein that is easy to add to your diet.
Eggs
“The incredible, edible egg” as they say. Another food high in protein that works to replenish your neurotransmitters. This superfood is inexpensive and can be used so many different ways. Hard boiled eggs can be eaten standalone for a quick burst of protein. Or even better, can be added to a salad.
These everyday foods can be easily found at all grocery stores. They can be added to any diet. Many of them are amazing as a combination, giving your body the right environment for a healthy mood. Finding small opportunities to add more mood boosting foods can help all of us to maintain a healthy emotional life during a tough time.
Food 4 Fuel has a wide selection of foods to help you maintain a healthy mood. We make it easy and convenient for you to treat your body with care. Take a look at our meal options here. Use the discount code mood10 to get 10% off of your next order!