It is easy to feel a little blue on a rainy day—if you want to eat to improve your mood, keep these food choices in mind:
• Carbohydrates make us happy, especially during the dark winter months (and on dark rainy days). Of course it is tempting to go for sweets and other refined carbohydrates, but the healthier complex carbs will do the trick too, it just takes a little longer to feel the effects. Choose whole grains, beans, vegetables, fruits, high fiber pasta or cereal.
• Caffeine, while not the very best thing you can ingest, will give you a lift. Anyone who has ever tried to give up caffeine can attest to the headaches, depression, and grouchiness that tend to come along with caffeine withdrawal. But if you are inclined to drink it, one cup of organic coffee a day will help you start the day off alert and happy. Green tea, which has antioxidants, is an even healthier choice (and it contains less caffeine).
• Folic acid, found in abundance in dark leafy greens and legumes, can alleviate depression, dementia and schizophrenia. B vitamins in general are great for helping us handle stress and keeping our energy levels steady. B vitamins can also be found in whole grains, nuts and seeds, and blackstrap molasses.
• Selenium deficiency can lead to depression, anxiety and fatigue. Ensure you get yours by eating whole grains, seafood, cereals, seeds and nuts—especially Brazil nuts. Eating even only one Brazil nut a day will meet your Selenium needs (up to 6 a day will give you a real boost, but don’t eat more than that since Selenium is toxic in large doses).
• Studies have shown that eating garlic has a positive effect on feelings of well-being, as well as blood and cholesterol levels.
• Chili peppers—thanks to capsaicin—induce a rush of endorphins in the brain!
