When depression strikes, people normally grab a bit of comfort food to make them feel better. Ice cream is a popular comfort food (you’ve heard of girls pigging out on a tub of Ben & Jerry’s after a break up right?), so are pizza and beer (this food pairing is usually associated with guys, though). As yummy as these are – they are not exactly the healthiest options in the market.
The next time you need to cheer yourself up with some edible goodies, shun the ice cream and pizza and try one of these instead! They not only make you feel good, they also very tasty and are beneficial to your your general health.
1. Dark Chocolate
Yes, now you have a reason to nibble on this delectable dessert! Dark chocolate not only improves the blood-flow to the brain, it also gives you an instant boost in your concentration levels as well as in your general mood! So if you’re feeling a bit blue, get a bite of chocolate, it will do you wonders!
2. Honey
It is a known fact that honey is healthy and a great alternative to sugar. If you are not as happy as you should be, perhaps you should include a dollop (or two) of honey in your regular diet. Honey contains kaempferol and quercetin, flavanols which help treat depression as well as reduce any inflammation in the brain.
3. Eggs
Eggs have been receiving a lot of bad rep lately – especially those concerned about cholesterol. However, eggs are really very healthy and must be included in everyone’s diet. Eggs contain vitamin B, iodine, zinc, proteins and omega-3 fatty acids- these will not only keep your mood upbeat, but will also keep your stomach feeling quite full!
4. Yogurt
.jpg)
Yogurt (or yoghurt) is a calcium rich snack that contains a lot of probiotics, which are friendly bacteria that have been known to do wonders with one’s mood. So the next time you’re feeling blue – ditch the tub of ice cream and get yourself a cup of yogurt instead.
5. Green Tea
Green tea is becoming extremely popular among the young generation. It is known to reduce stress and this is due to the antioxidant L-theanine which can only be found in green tea leaves. This antioxidant . has relaxing effect on your senses. Another benefit of sipping green tea is that it will leave you with fresher breath and can help prevent tooth decay.
6. Coconut
Ever wondered why people who live in tropical countries seem happier than those who don’t? Apart from the abundant sunshine (which does do wonders to one’s general outlook) it could also be due to the availability of coconuts! Yes, coconut meat – in its raw form – promotes better mood. Coconut meat contains triglycerides, these are special fats that help in improving moods and also promote the health of your noggin (also known as your brains). Remember that we’re only talking about coconut meat. Coconut milk is a different matter.
7. Spinach
Spinach – the green leafy vegetable that is rich in iron – is also a great food to eat if you want to feel happier. The secret’s in the iron – if you don’t have enough iron in your blood, you’re more likely to experience exhaustion, depression and irritability. If you have sufficient iron flowing through your body, you are pumped up with oxygen thus giving your mood a much needed boost.
Of course, like all things, everything should be done in moderation. Remember that even the healthiest of food items, when consumed in excess, can be bad for your body.