9X FOOD THAT MAKES YOU HAPPY
I have bad news for you, girlfriends. Or yes, bad... I need to help you out of a dream. Research shows that comfort food doesn't actually make you as happy as you think. Those jars of Ben & Jerry’s, bars of Tony’s, and old-school super sweet tompouces are no longer an excuse for your bad mood. They are certainly satisfying and sweet, but they contain little goodness. Can food actually improve your mood? Yes girlfriend, it definitely can. There are close relationships between our brain and certain nutrients that scientists have found to be important for a pair of well-functioning brains. If this is in your kitchen cupboard from now on, your morning mood will disappear like snow in the sun.
1. Almonds
This little nut contains the amino acid tyrosine, which helps to produce dopamine in your brain. And dopamine helps you feel happy. Spread another layer of almond paste on a piece of banana bread.
2. Broccoli
This healthy little green is packed with chromium, which is needed to keep serotonin levels in your brain stable. These substances play a role in regulating our emotions and moods and are especially used to treat depression.
3. Spinach
Magnesium also contributes to the production of serotonin. And this favorite meal of Popeye just happens to be a magnesium bomb. Before going to sleep, this little green is actually very good. By the way, it does very well too.
4. Shellfish
A plate of mussels or a pasta vongole is not only incredibly delicious, but it also makes you genuinely happy. The shells, or yes, the contents of course, contain vitamins B9 and B12, which are also known as the antidepressant duo.
5. Saffron
Research shows that this cozy little thread from India stimulates the same amount of serotonin as Prozac (antidepressants). An Iranian study even showed that women who suffer from mood swings during menstruation have as much as 50% fewer complaints after using special saffron capsules.
6. Egg yolk
Especially in winter, it is important to have breakfast with an egg a bit more often. In particular, the egg yolk contains a good dose of vitamin D, which we soak up in the summer from the terrace or the beach. A small amount of this vitamin is associated with depression. That is also the reason why we are a lot less cheerful in winter.
7. Salmon
This fatty fish is a good source of Omega 3. Omega 3 is an essential fatty acid that makes up to 18% of the weight of our brains. We do not produce this ourselves, so we need to get it through our food. There are studies that show a link between eating fatty fish and a reduced risk of depression and even suicide.
8. Chocolate
Fortunately, dear girls, it is still allowed. A bar to eat away your sadness. But preferably a piece of dark chocolate. Forget that endorphin; the substance that gives you the high is called anandamide and is found in large quantities in your favorite comfort food.
