FOODS FOR A HAPPY MOOD
1. Sweet potatoes
· They are rich in folate and help keep blood sugar steady.
2. Peanuts
· One of the best sources of the mood-boosting mineral selenium, which wards off anxiety.
3. Fish
· Fish, like sardine and mackerel, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which help the brain to interpret moods and boost the levels of concentration.
4. Eggs
· They contain zinc, which helps you to feel more awake and energetic by regulating your metabolism and blood sugar.
5. Yoghurt
· Rich in calcium and protein, it is also a great food to ease mood swings, depression and anxiety.
6. Spinach
· Rich in iron, it’s a great energy booster and wards off fatigue and aids concentration.
· It is also a good source of vitamin B6 and folate, which are essential for the brain’s ability to produce mood-boosting neurotransmitters.
FOOD RULES FOR CURING MOOD SWINGS
· Avoid sugary foods like biscuits, cakes, chocolate and fizzy drinks.
· Be careful with fruit juices packed with concentrated sugar to avoid rapid rise in blood sugar.
· Switch from white carbohydrates to wholegrain carbs, like whole wheat breads, whole meal pasta and brown rice, which will keep your energy levels steady.
· Eat leaner protein, like nuts, chicken and fish, all of which provide long-lasting energy to overcome sluggishness, and also help suppress food cravings.
· Switch from booze, a calorie-packed depressant, to a glass of grapes-based wine.