To be happy, you do not need much – just to have the right foods that elevate your mood.
Fish Protects from Depressions
Studies have shown that people living in the countries, where fish is an integral part of the diet, have the lowest levels of depression, bipolar disorder, postpartum depression, and seasonal affective disorder. This is because fish contains a lot of omega-3 fatty acids. The study, conducted in 2008, showed that treatment of depression with fish oil can be just as effective as the popular in the whole world Prozac.
Tomatoes against Depressions
The compound called lycopene is not only responsible for the red color of tomatoes. It also improves the mood, preventing the formation of inflammatory compounds in the brain that are associated with depression. Tomatoes contain other “mood enhancers”, such as folic acid, magnesium, iron and vitamin B6, which are important for the production of such mood-regulating neurotransmitters of the brain, as serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine.
Red Beet as Antidepressant
Being a root vegetable, beet is an excellent source of vitamin B, needed by our brain for the good functioning of memory, good humor, the ability to quickly find information and process it. Beet also contains betaine, a compound that our brain uses to create a natural antidepressant.
Chili and Garlic Cause Endorphin Production
Chili is hot because of capsaicin contained in it. Reacting to the appearance of this fat-soluble molecules in our blood, the brain produces endorphins – natural compounds, which have a calming effect. As for garlic, it contains a large amount of chromium, which affects the regulation of serotonin, known as the “happy” chemical substance.
Honey Gives Power
In contrast to the useless and even harmful sugars, honey contains vitamins B, folic acid, iron, manganese and 181 different biologically active compounds, such as quercetin and caffeic acid, increasing energy production in the brain.
