When times are tough, we all need as much help in feeling happier as possible. So-called ‘mood foods’ can be a great way for us to incorporate some happiness-stimulating proteins and natural chemicals into our bodies to make us feel a little perkier. Take a look at my list of 8 Mood Foods to Feel Happier Instantly for a few ideas about how to make your miserable Monday morning a lot better.
1 Avocado
Scientists have found that avocados are packed full with folic acid, a natural chemical which is great at metabolizing proteins and therefore increasing energy levels. If you are in need of a ‘mood food’ to help you keep working through the day, then having some avocado for lunch could help you to keep smiling throughout the day.
2 Chilies
If you like to add some spice into your day, chilies can help you to remain on-the-ball. By increasing your endorphin levels, chilies are one of the foods that will really get you in the right mood – of course if you aren’t a fan of heat, make sure you only try a mild one!
Although not an office-favorite due to the associated bad breath, garlic can help to increase the blood flow around your body. The easier it is to pump blood around your body, the less energy your heart will use which means you have more energy for enjoying the rest of your day! Do make sure that you keep some gum handy though…
4 Goji Berries
These are one of the ‘mood foods’ that are a little more obscure. You may have some difficulty finding goji berries in your local supermarket, but they have been proven to raise testosterone levels in men and are full of anti-oxidants which will increase your general mood and wellbeing. (They are readily available online and in health food stores)
5 Honey
It may seem obvious, but the natural sugar – known as fructose - in honey provides the necessary energy levels required to keep your stamina and mood up. Adding honey to your breakfast can really help kick-start your day, or makes the perfect accompaniment to a hot drink during the winter months.
6 Pumpkin Seeds
These little seeds can help to boost your hormone levels which will help regulate your moods. A quick nibble on the seeds from your desk drawer occasionally will make sure that your mood doesn’t waver throughout the day!
7 Almonds
It may surprise you, but almonds are full of amino acids that help your blood flow. Much like garlic, this will leave you more energy to boost your mood. Almonds go very well with cereals, so pair with some honey and you are set to go!
8 Dark Chocolate
Well ladies, I had to save the very best for last. If you ever need an excuse to eat chocolate (which, let’s face it, you never do) then its help in aiding your good mood can be the excuse. Dark chocolate contains various natural chemicals and amino acids that make it the ultimate of mood foods for women – whether you want to add it to your breakfast, as a snack halfway through the day or as a treat just before bed, dark chocolate is sure to make you feel happier.
I hope you have enjoyed reading my list of 8 Mood Foods to Feel Happier Instantly, and have taken away a few tips on the mood foods that will ensure that your disposition never falters. Of course they should be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet and all should be consumed in moderation – if you eat too many, people might wonder why you’re so happy! Please do comment with a story or tip for others to read about how you better your mood throughout the day.
SRV Very interesting list. Different nuts are also very good.
Liliana Itstead of just "chocolate" try dark chocolate! It's healthier and still gets you in a good mood!
Denise Thanks for the suggestion, Liliana! I'll pass it along to an editor.
Erica Great information! One of my favorite snacks in the afternoon time is trail mix that contains almonds, dark chocolate and dried fruit. It always gives me an energy boost and the chocolate puts me in a good mood. I am always on the hunt for healthy snacks and so these are some great options. Thanks!!
Lillie @Erica, Where did you find dried fruit? I think I going to try that. I need something to snack on. Thank for your tip.
Denise Hello there Erica. Yes, trail mix is a great snack to have on hand. Don't you just love how you can add to the mix based on your personal taste? I love your mix, by the way. Thanks for joining us on All Women Stalk!
Zsa Ahh, feel good foods. Today's busy woman who juggles her family life and career,or even just going solo needs good mood food. Chocolate has always been my good mood food of choice. :)
Denise Hey Zsa Zsa. Welcome to All Women Stalk! You're not alone in your choice. Chocolate is the mood food of choice of many women. What's your favorite chocolate?
suburbangrandama Now I know why I smile more than others around me...they need to read this article and improve their snacking ....lol
ah-oomeh eating an apple eliminates the famous garlic breath! seriously, try it yourself
Denise Hi there Ah-oomeh. I think that tip also works for regular bad breath. Hehe. Thanks for joining us on the site!
FX Avocado is definitely number one in my list too=) I have to try some others too =)
Denise Hey there. Yes, do try the other foods on the list. They are healthy and they will make you feel better. Thanks for reading us!
Charlie I do enjoy chillies and find what you wrote about chillies very interesting.
Denise Hi Charlie. Welcome to All Women Stalk! I just love spicy food! Have you also noticed how you get a burst of energy from eating chillies?
Michele What an interesting list of foods.Love all of them but never knew exactly why they would be good for me. Have to get a big supply in the house!
Denise Hey Michele. Isn't it great that you now know how the food you love can benefit your body? We're glad that you took away useful information from this post. Thanks for reading us!