Even though we might associate our moods with our minds, they can be influenced physically as well. I’m talking about filling our tanks with fuel. When our bodies are our vehicles, what’s better fuel than yummy nutrients? Vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients can bump up our energy levels and give us that mood boost we need. Happy bodies and brains make for a happy human. Think about that afternoon slump we get during the week. All we want is a nap and nothing to worry about. We could avoid that fatigue with food! I’m not talking coffee and candy. I mean sustainable nutrients. Not only can we pick ourselves up, but we can avoid the slump entirely but staying nourished by eating these mood boosting foods:
Salmon – This fish is jam packed with omega-3 fatty acids. Our brain loves omega-3’s! It gets the energy up and circulation moving through the brain. This specific nutrient is very beneficial for mood disorders such as bipolar and depression.
Banana – Rich in potassium and B vitamins, no wonder it’s one of the world’s best energy boosting foods. The carbs and vitamins in bananas also help you to feel full. It has a sustained release of energy and keeps blood sugar levels stable.
Coconut – These oils are full of medium chain triglycerides which is a kind of fat that turns into energy quickly. Fat turning into energy sounds way better than being stored.
Eggs – These little fragile things are packed with iron, protein, and B vitamins. B vitamins help turn food into energy.
Kale – This leafy green has gotten pretty popular in recent years. No wonder! It’s loaded with vitamins and minerals. It has copper, potassium, iron, and phosphorus! Interestingly enough, it’s recommended to eat cooked rather than raw. Shocker! This is because the body can digest and absorb these nutrients much easier when cooked.
Goji Berries – Chinese medicine has been using this these little berries for years to increase energy and enhance the release of hormones. They aid the body in handling stress and support mood, mind, and memory. Who doesn’t love berries?
Raw Cacao – Yeeesssss chocolate! Well don’t expect Hershey’s, this chocolate is a bit more bitter. However, this chocolate helps stop those sugar binges. It’s enough of a treat, but you only need a little. It’s full of iron and magnesium and charges up that energy. Make sure the cacao you’re eating is at least 70 percent. The higher the percentage, the more nutrient dense it is.
If you’re interested in looking at your diet, investigating possible vitamin/mineral deficiencies, and understanding your moods, please contact Crownview Medical Group to get in touch with a nutritionist and medical professional.
Sources:
http://foodmatters.tv/content/12-foods-to-boost-your-mood-energy
http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-7264/8-best-superfoods-to-boost-your-mood-energy-levels.html
