Healthy eating is more than a choice—it’s a lifestyle method that’s highly influential on your daily life. This time of year, the decrease in sunlight and the shortness of the days weigh especially heavy on our bodies, causing a less positive outlook on life. The darkness takes a cumbersome toll on our fluctuating moods, energy levels, and eating habits.
Consuming certain foods can have a negative effect on a person’s outward perspective—or bring about a brighter frame of mind on the weariest of days. If you’re in desperate need of some spirit-lifting, fill up your plate with these top mood-boosting foods to beat the winter blues—one forkful, spoonful, or sip at a time.
Pump Up the Probiotics
Popularly known for their vital role in digestive health, probiotic-rich foods nourish the gut. The gut is home to a plentiful source of serotonin production. Yogurt is one ideal option, but the “it” probiotic these days is the milk-like drink kefir. You should also focus on tasty fermented foods such as Korean kimchi, pickled veggies, miso, or sauerkraut for a feel-good core. By replenishing good bacteria, you can support your overall digestion and boost your immunity. Nothing feels better than a happy, healthy gut.
Load Up on Leafy Greens
Leafy green vegetables are definitely top mood-boosting foods to beat the winter blues because they contain tryptophan, iron, and B-vitamin folate. Consuming foods high in folate correlates with the reduction of anxiety and depression, as past studies have shown that the vitamin affects specific neurotransmitters in the brain that are highly influential on mood.
Spinach is also notable for its nitrate content, which can boost one’s energy levels for athletic performance. If you feel bloated during the “blah” days of winter, toss some kale, asparagus, broccoli, edamame, lentils, or avocado into your main dinner dish for a natural source of diuretics and serotonin.
Don’t Fight Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Growing research has also shown that omega-3 fatty acids may play a critical role in proper brain functioning at all times of the year. Wild salmon is the most favored fatty fish for its source of omega-3s, but other foods with these essential fats include tuna, anchovies, nuts, flaxseeds, and even grass-fed or gourmet beef. Despite the assumptions otherwise, the health benefits of beef marbling are suitable for a wholesome diet. High-quality meat and sufficient protein actually lower stress, regulate various chemicals in the brain, and fuel active lifestyles.
Whatever spirit-lifting food you personally put on your plate, remember the importance of maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet throughout the recurring change of seasons. Managing mental health is not a cut-and-dry process, but making smart lifestyle choices can yield real results.