Food has a bigger impact on our lives than we realise. Not only does it fuel our bodies, but it can also impact our mood.

Eating certain foods can help in boosting the production of endorphins and serotonin, which are known as the “feel-good” hormones. Here’s a list of the top 10 foods that can lift up your mood:.

1. Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate contains a compound called phenylethylamine, which helps in releasing endorphins in the brain. Endorphins are hormones that reduce stress and make us feel happy.

Additionally, dark chocolate has flavonoids that have antioxidant properties that help in improving our overall health. So, having a small piece of dark chocolate can help in lifting your mood.

2. Berries

Berries, such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, are rich in antioxidants, which help in reducing inflammation in the brain. Inflammation in the brain can lead to depression and anxiety.

Berries are also a great source of vitamin C, which reduces the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. So, adding berries to your diet can help in reducing stress and anxiety and improve your mood.

3. Nuts

Nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews, are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium. Omega-3 fatty acids help in reducing inflammation in the brain, which can lead to depression and anxiety.

Magnesium helps in activating neurotransmitters that are responsible for regulating mood. So, having a handful of nuts every day can help in reducing stress, anxiety, and improve your mood.

4. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish, such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids help in reducing inflammation in the brain and provide relief from depression and anxiety.

Additionally, fatty fish contains vitamin D, which is also known to improve mood. So, including fatty fish in your diet can help in reducing stress and anxiety and improve your overall mood.

5. Spinach

Spinach is a great source of folate, which helps in the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone. Serotonin is responsible for improving mood and reducing anxiety.

Additionally, spinach is also a great source of magnesium, which helps in activating neurotransmitters that regulate mood. So, adding spinach to your diet can help in reducing stress and anxiety and lift up your mood.

6. Avocado

Avocado is a great source of monounsaturated fats, which are known to improve brain health and reduce inflammation in the brain. Additionally, avocados are also rich in vitamin B6, which helps in the production of neurotransmitters that regulate mood.

So, including avocado in your diet can help in reducing stress and anxiety and improve your overall mood.

7. Oats

Oats are a great source of complex carbohydrates, which help in releasing serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is responsible for improving mood and reducing anxiety. Oats also contain soluble fibre, which helps in reducing inflammation in the body.

So, having oats for breakfast can help in reducing stress, anxiety, and lift up your mood.

8. Yogurt

Yogurt is a great source of probiotics, which are known as the “good bacteria” that help in improving gut health. Improved gut health is directly linked to better mental health.

Additionally, yogurt is also a great source of protein, which helps in the production of neurotransmitters that regulate mood. So, including yogurt in your diet can help in reducing stress, anxiety, and lift up your mood.

9. Turmeric

Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which helps in reducing inflammation in the brain. Inflammation in the brain can lead to depression and anxiety. Additionally, turmeric is also known for its antidepressant properties.

So, adding turmeric to your diet can help in reducing stress, anxiety, and lift up your mood.

10. Bananas

Bananas are a great source of carbohydrates, which help in the production of serotonin, the “feel-good” hormone. Bananas are also a great source of vitamin B6, which helps in the production of neurotransmitters that regulate mood.

Additionally, they are also rich in potassium, which helps in relaxing muscles and reducing stress. So, having a banana as a snack can help in reducing stress, anxiety, and lift up your mood.

Conclusion

Eating a healthy and balanced diet is essential for our physical and mental health. Certain foods can help in boosting our mood and reducing stress and anxiety.

So, including the top 10 foods mentioned above in your diet can help in improving your overall mood and mental health.