Best Foods For a Good Mood
We all know healthy food is good for our bodies and now research suggests it’s good for our minds too. Eating well can help us manage mood swings, stress and anxiety. Here are a few ways to boost your mood with food:
Regular Eating
Eat regularly throughout the day – low blood sugar can make you feel tired and irritable so keep your blood sugars level. If you don’t have time for big meals eat small, regular portions spaced out through the day.
Get Protein Early
Always try to eat a protein breakfast – missing breakfast can lead to low blood sugar and low mood.
Lower Your Sugar Intake
Avoid eating too many sweet things that make your blood sugar surge and dip.
Fruit is a Must (Love Struck Smoothies Count)
Eat fruit and vegetables (did you know one of our smoothies counts as one of your 5-a-day?!)
Lots of Protein
Make sure you’re getting enough protein. Proteins create amino acids, which make up the chemicals your brain needs to regulate thoughts and feelings. The amino acid tryptophan is a key one for mental health. Good protein is in lean meat, fish, eggs and cheese. If you’re vegan make sure you’re eating plenty of foods such as peas, beans, lentils, soya, nuts and seeds.
Health Fats
Eat good fats –your brain needs fatty acids such as Omega 3 and 6 to work properly. Healthy fats are found in oily fish, poultry, nuts, olive and sunflower oils, seeds, avocados (one of our favourite things!) and dairy.
Get Some Whole Grain
Eat more whole grains and less refined carbs – wholegrains are much better for blood sugar levels and contain more B vitamins, which are good for your mood.
Vitamins Like B12
Make sure you’re getting enough Vitamin B12, found in red meat and fish. If you’ve vegan use yeast extract or take a supplement.
Water and Hydration
Keep hydrated! Even mild dehydration can cause tiredness or restlessness. Drink less caffeine and more water, especially in summer
Avoid Alcohol
Keep alcohol to a minimum – the liver works hard to process it, which in turn depletes our bodies’ reserves of important nutrients such as zinc.
Medication Info
If you are taking medication for depression or anxiety then you may need to avoid certain foods. Go to mind.org.uk for more information about this.
And don’t forget life is to be enjoyed – so enjoy what you eat!