If we eat too much we can feel sluggish and lethargic and if we eat too little we can feel irritable, tired (and sometimes even hangry!) But did you know that some foods can actually alter our moods? Check out our top 5 mood enhancing foods!
1. Chocolate
A little bit of what you fancy does you good and this is certainly the case for chocolate. Chocolate contains an amino acid called tryptophan which triggers the release of seretonin (the happy hormone) to the brain. For a double dose of goodness, stick to dark chocolate with 70%+ cocoa for a hit of antioxidants and avoid the sugar crash by not going overboard.
2. Saffron
During a 2008 study, researchers found that saffron could reduce the symptoms of Premenstrual syndrome such as depression and mood swings. Try a pinch of it in your risotto.
3. Chilli
This is a bit of a funny one as when we eat spicy food such as chilli, that spicy, burning mouth sensation we get is actually pain. When we experience pain our body triggers the release of endorphins to counteract these feelings, so next time your feeling low take a trip to your local curry house!
4. Mushrooms
Mushrooms are full of selenium, a lack of which can be linked to depression, anxiety and fatigue. They are also the only plant source containing naturally occurring vitamin D, a deficiency of which can be linked to Seasonal Affective Disorder.
5. Green Tea
Not strictly food, but a Japanese study found that levels of psychological stress were 20% lower in people who drank five+ cups of green tea per day compared to those who drank less than one. Check out other benefits of green tea here.
