Your body and mind are two essential factors that comprise your being. They work together to build a unique person that's you. Your body represents your physical features while your mind is represented by your brain which controls your thoughts and actions.
Anything that boosts your mood energizes your body. Feed your brain with natural mood enhancers and your body will also perform at its best.
Here are five foods that help to enhance your mood:
1. Whole Gains and Cereals
Cereals are part of your body's requirement for whole grains. They contain folic acid or vitamin B9, which helps in the production of red blood cells as well as norepinephrine and seratonin, two chemical components of the nervous system which help to regulate your brain's normal functions.
Folic acid also helps to boost your mood. A deficiency of this nutrient can make some people experience symptoms of depression, according to a study conducted by the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health.
Whole grains and cereals are also loaded with vitamins and iron work to nourish your body and fuel it up with energy.
2. Fish
Several kinds of fishes contain omega-3 fatty acids which are considered brain food by health experts. A study conducted by the University of Pittsburg says that people who have high levels of omega-3 have a happier disposition than those whose omega-3 levels are low.
Fishes are rich in vitamins, protein, phosphorous, potassium and magnesium but they low in saturated fats. Eating fish regularly reduces your risk of getting a heart disease.
3. Egg yolks
Egg yolks contain choline which is an essential nutrient for the brain development of babies. Choline is a mood enhancer which is believed to prevent memory loss due to aging. Health experts believe that choline has the ability to nourish the liver and reverse damage that has already taken place.
Aside from choline, eggs also contain vitamins A and D, folate and calcium which work together to keep you well-nourished and in high spirits.
4. Chocolate
According to a report from the British Journal of Psychiatry, chocolate is a mood enhancer which has the ability to reverse the mood of depressed people. It however cautioned that since munching too much chocolate can cause sugar coma, consumption should be limited to just one ounce in any given day.
In another report, The Journal of Nutrition related that a weekly consumption of two ounces of chocolate may lower your risk of getting a heart disease by 33 percent.
5. Fruits and Vegetables
A study conducted by the University of London relates that fruit and vegetable eaters are least likely to feel depressed.
Several fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamins which include the natural mood enhancing B complex, antioxidants, minerals and fiber.
Eating deeply colored fresh fruits and vegetables on a regular basis can help to alleviate symptoms of depression and lower your risk for heart diseases.
Fruits and vegetable which are packed with the most nutritional value include berries, tomatoes, bananas, melon, leafy greens, Brussels sprouts, asparagus and broccoli.
