Five foods that can provide fuel when you're feeling low
What's the story
With growing stress, it is a relief to know that there are certain foods that can help lift our spirits. Grabbing a candy or downing an ice-cream tub are the most sought-after ways to bring back that smile. However, these foods come with their own adverse effects (read high calories). Here are certain alternatives to grab the next time your brain needs some fuel.
Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate: Better than milk chocolate, lowers depression
Dark chocolate is known to be a better alternative to its milk counterpart due to its mood-enhancing benefits. It has several mood-boosting compounds like caffeine and theobromine and the sugars present in it act as a quick fix to fuel the brain. A survey also showed that those who consumed dark chocolate reported fewer episodes of depression in comparison to those who did not.
Fatty fish
Fatty fish: Helps alleviate even postpartum depression
A decrease in omega-3 fatty acids has been linked to mental health problems. And omega-3 fatty acids found in fish such as EPA and DHA play a major role in mental well-being. Studies prove that including more fatty fish in the diet helps lower postpartum depression in new mothers. Another study has also linked consuming fatty fish to better mental health in adults.
Bananas
Bananas release feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin
If you are feeling low, eat a banana and you might soon start having an upbeat mood. This is because bananas contain vitamin B6, which plays a major role in synthesizing feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. These two aid in elevating our mood. Bananas are rich in fiber and low in fat, making them a guilt-free addition to the diet.
Coffee
Coffee releases mood-boosting neurotransmitters, caffeine prevents tiredness
Coffee is a debatable subject when it comes to health. But if you're for the motion (read beverage), here is one point that can strengthen your reasoning. Studies prove that coffee increases the release of mood-boosting neurotransmitters like dopamine and norepinephrine. In addition, the caffeine present in coffee also prevents adenosine, a compound that's known to promote tiredness, from attaching to brain receptors.
Nuts and seeds
Consume nuts, seeds daily to reduce depression risk by 23%
Studies suggest that daily consumption of nuts and seeds leads to a 23% lower risk of depression. This is because these foods provide tryptophan, a plant-based amino acid that aids in producing mood-boosting serotonin. Include nuts such as almonds, cashews, peanuts, and walnuts in your diet. Seeds such as pumpkin, sesame, and sunflower are the best choices when it comes to mood-enhancing benefits.