Good Mood Food: What To Eat To Be Happy

We’ll put our hands up here: We are the definition of emotional eaters. Turn to the page ‘emotional eater’ in the dictionary, and there we are, eating mac and cheese post-breakup, avoiding a deadline with a box of cookies and treating ourselves to mounds of fried rice after a tough day. 

But has anyone actually felt better after binging on carbs? We don’t know about you, but after the initial comfort factor (and food coma), we end up feeling worse— still grumpy but with a few extra pounds of potato chips weighing us down. 

Newsflash: It doesn’t have to be like that! Believe it or not, there are foods than can actually put you in a good mood. And no, we’re not talking about weed brownies here. There are foods out there that are actually beneficial and can help you navigate your way through stress, moodiness and just plain ole bad days. Here are the best happy eating ingredients: 

1. Salmon

Salmon is a great source of energy-boosting goodness. It has essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for energy production, brain activity and circulation. 

2. Walnuts

Ten walnuts a day keep the doctor away. Seriously. Just ten walnuts a day are shown to lower blood cholesterol levels, which helps to improve blood flow around the body and bring on that good mood. 

3. Eggs

Eggs are a valuable source of the nutrient choline, which has been proven to lift mood and energy levels. Now, you have another excuse to head to brunch and order that avocado toast with poached egg. You're welcome. 

4. Green Tea

For an overall feeling of calm, swap your usual cup of black tea for a soothing cup of green tea. Some green teas can be unpleasant and bitter, but we promise this one is nice and mellow still harnessing all those good mood benefits: Stash Premium Green Tea.

5. Dark Chocolate 

Who would argue against the belief that chocolate improves mood? Since dark chocolate is made with a high proportion of cocoa, it’s rich in magnesium, which is essential for mental health. In particular, it seems to help with anxiety and help with our resilience to stress. And it also tastes good, so that will cheer you up in the traditional sense, too.

6. Seaweed

Great news, millennials. One of 2017’s hottest foods is right up there for boosting moods. A rich source of iodine, seaweed is crucial for optimal energy and mood. Sprinkle it on to salads, soups and casseroles. Or check out these seaweed chips for delicious, no-guilt munchies. 

Next up, Our Top Sustainable Food-spots In London