Foods to Boost Your Mood

One of the positive effects a healthy diet can bring to your body is improving your mood. If your diet consists of highly-processed foods and sugary beverages — full of extra sugar, salt, oil and calories — then you may not feel as energetic and happy. Here are five foods to eat to help improve your mood.

Fish

Since fish is enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, your brain function will benefit which means your mental health will too. Salmon, trout and sardines are a few examples of fish that have a healthy amount of high omega-3 fatty acids.

Vegetables

Leafy greens can provide folic acid to your diet which can supply serotonin in our brains. Serotonin is responsible for regulating our mood. Spinach, broccoli and beets are a few examples of vegetables that can help you feel more energetic.

Fat-Free or Low-Fat Dairy Products

In addition to drinking water, fat-free or low-fat milk is also a good drink option. Fat-free or low-fat dairy products contain Vitamin D which can help stabilize your mood. Drinking and eating fat-free or low-fat milk or yogurt can provide you with Vitamin D, and you can also receive natural Vitamin D from the sun.

Whole Grains

Whole grains contain complex carbohydrates which provides lasting energy for the body. Eating foods that have complex carbohydrates, such as oatmeal, whole-grain breads and whole-grain cereals can help your mood and your digestion.

Whole Fruits

Like the other options listed above, whole fruit is a nutrient-dense food which means they provide natural health benefits without the use of added sugar, fat and salt. Whole fruit can help improve your mood since they aren’t processed and cut with additions to preserve their shelf life and make them taste better. If you’re craving something sweet to fill the void of a sweet treat, try whole fruit like a banana.

For more help on boosting your mood, contact your EAP provider at (319) 398-6694.