Pumpkin seeds - these are great for reducing anxiety and relieving feelings of low mood. The tryptophan they contain supports the production of the feel-good chemical serotonin. They have zinc and magnesium which keeps our immune system healthy and supports energy release.
High fibre carbs - these keep our blood sugar stable, which helps keep our mood steady. In addition, they are great for keeping waste moving through our gut and supporting our gut health. A healthy gut is vital for energy, and when we feel energetic our mood improves.
Beans and lentils - these are full of plant based protein. Beans and lentils are magical, they are a great source of vitamin B, which increases our feel-good neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. In addition, they are a source of zinc, selenium and iron which help with energy levels and mood.
Leafy green veggies - these are packed full of vitamins and minerals, fabulous for our overall health. The magnesium in them helps calm our system by keeping our cortisol (stress hormone) levels steady, as well as being great for energy. They have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body, which in turn supports our gut and whole system health - wonderful for our mood!
Dark chocolate - dark chocolate contains flavonoids which boost brain health and therefore your mood. Not to mention chocolate gives pleasure - all good for your mood!
Citrus fruits - these are a fantastic source of vitamin B, which help keep our mood steady.
Oats - these are full of fibre, which slow the release of carbs, keeping our blood sugar levels steady - which helps reduce mood swings and irritability. Oats also have iron, which helps keep up our energy levels
Bananas - bananas have high levels of B6, which affects your feel-good neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin.
Nuts and seeds - these are high in plant based protein. They produce serotonin - which is important in fighting depression - by providing tryptophan Tryptophan is a core amino acid vital to the production of serotonin. Added to this some seeds and nuts provide minerals selenium and zinc, which support brain function.
Oily fish - the omega 3 fatty acids these provide are essential to keeping your brain healthy and thought to reduce levels of depression.
