Do you ever feel cheerful after you eat your favorite food? Or perhaps you feel sluggish and cranky after eating too much fast food? What we eat can affect the way we feel. Certain foods can enhance our mood, while others can leave us feeling lethargic. Let’s see how food can improve our mood.
1. Healthy Foods Give You Energy
Our body requires good fuel to function well. Consuming fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins provides us with energy and keeps us active. When we consume junk foods such as chips, candies, and soft drinks, we may feel happy for a while, but afterwards we become tired and lethargic.
2. Happy Foods for a Happy Mood
Certain foods can make our brain release chemicals that make us happy. For instance:
Bananas contain vitamin B6, which aids in the production of serotonin, a chemical that makes us happy.
Dark chocolate can make us feel better by raising endorphins, which are chemicals that make us feel good.
Nuts and seeds have healthy fats that assist our brain in functioning better and make us feel good.
Fish such as salmon and tuna contain omega-3 fatty acids, which assist in alleviating stress and mood improvement.
3. Stay Hydrated for a Clear Mind
Drinking water is as crucial as eating proper food. When we do not drink water in sufficient quantities, we become lethargic, dizzy, and even get irritable. Make sure you drink a minimum of 6-8 glasses of water every day to maintain your body and mind fresh.
4. Steer Clear of Excessive Sugar and Processed Food
Consuming excess sugar or processed food leads to energy crashes and mood swings. You might feel happy and energetic immediately after consuming sweets, but you will be tired and sad afterwards. Eat natural sugars found in fruits instead of candy and soda.
5. Eating Regular Meals Helps
Skipping meals will leave you weak and cranky. Attempt to eat at the same time each day in order to maintain a consistent energy level. A healthy breakfast, lunch, and dinner will keep you cheerful and active during the day.
Final Thoughts
Food is not only for our body’s fuel—it also influences our mood. To be happier and more energetic, eating healthy, staying hydrated, and not consuming too much sugar are helpful. So, the next time you decide what food to eat, select those that will make you and your body happy!
