Friday Fitness |5 Foods to Boost Your Mood

A lot has happened this week. It’s been a challenging one in many ways, but it’s motivated me to stay on top of blogging and seek out new creative opportunities. On top of that, we’ve had a few gloomy, not so sunny days here in Houston. What’s a girl to do? How about make some delicious, healthy food that will surely boost your mood. Food that is good for your body is good for your mind too. You won’t have any regrets about what you’re eating, and you’ll have fun doing some leisurely grocery shopping for new items. Here are a few favorites of mine that always cheer me up.

5. Blue Potatoes

Nix your mundane, colorless potatoes for blue potatoes. The antioxidant anthocyanin (also found in blueberries) gives the blue potato its vibrant color, which is proven to improve memory and reduce inflammation caused by stress and moodiness. Make a blue potato salad, or roast them with some other veggies.

Photo credit: Vensenka Photography

4. Asparagus

Not to get all science-y on you, but according to eatthis.com, asparagus is full of tryptophan, the chemical that is responsible for the production of serotonin in your body. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps balance your mood.

3. Eggs

I love eggs! A classic Texan breakfast will always have some toast, eggs, and bacon. People think eggs are bad because they’re high in cholesterol. In reality, they’re very high in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins. Don’t go hungry in the morning. Scramble some eggs with veggies to fuel yourself for the day.

2. Coconut Oil

I started experimenting with coconut oil in efforts to use different kinds of healthy fats in my diet. I don’t use butter or vegetable oils as often anymore, so coconut oil has been an amazing substitute. Use it in a stir-fry or even when baking.

Stir-fry with coconut oil! Yum!

1. Dark Chocolate

Well, this is a given. Chocolate always works if you’re in a pouty mood. But you’ll want to stick with dark chocolate full of real cocoa and high in flavanols, and avoid the fake stuff in brands like Hershey’s or Snickers. I like Green & Black’s Organic Dark Chocolate. The bars are divided into bite size pieces for a quick mood-booster snack.