8 Mood-Boosting Foods to Cure the Winter Blues

Feeling blue—or maybe just a little blah? Your diet could be partly to blame. Growing research shows that the nutrients (or lack thereof) we put in our bodies have a major effect on our emotions, and the foods we choose to eat when we’re feeling stressed, tired, anxious, or depressed can either help pick us up, or keep dragging us down. Next time you’re feeling down or in a fog, swap the pretzels and Ben & Jerry’s for one of these 8 proven mood-boosting foods. Let us know in the comments if you notice a difference in your overall mood! photo by kate zimmerman A Balanced Breakfast The effects on mood begin where your day begins: at breakfast. This is something I can personally attest to for multiple reasons. If I wait too long to eat breakfast, or graze on a few things here and there throughout the morning, I become irritated more easily, and my energy levels suffer the rest of the day. A nutrient-packed balanced breakfast is the best way to set our minds and bodies up for a great day ahead. Include lots of fiber (raspberries, sweet potatoes, chia seeds, avocado), some lean protein (yogurt, eggs, turkey bacon), and good (unsaturated) fats to balance out your whole-grain carbohydrates every morning. Along with improved mood, research has found that regularly eating breakfast also contributes to better memory, more long-lasting energy, and feelings of calmness. image by kristen kilpatrick Green Tea If you’re having a hard day, sipping a hot cup of tea can do wonders for calming nerves and brightening up a bad mood. Opt for green tea and you may reap even more benefits. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition , green tea contains many mood-boosting nutrients including the amino acid L-theanine, which has […]

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