Happy Monday!
Have you ever thought about all the different ways that what we eat can affect us? Sometimes, I forget and sometimes, I guess I just don’t always want to remember…
It’s not just our weight and our health that are affected. Food even affects our mood! Certain foods can make you feel more relaxed and lift your mood. They also help you feel better and improve your thinking process! Here are just a few and they happen to be some of my favorites.
Sugar-free dark chocolate: Chocolate is made from cacao beans. The beans contain hundreds of healthy properties that promote a healthy cardiovascular system, better focus and improve your mood. One better known property is phenylethylamine (PEA), a chemical released by your brain when falling in love.
Dark, leafy greens are full of magnesium which encourages relaxation, decreased pain and even better sleep. Try raw spinach, chard and kale for a real boost.
Salmon, mackerel, tuna and other high-quality proteins satisfy you, balance blood sugar and provide the necessary building blocks for a healthy brain. Spreading these proteins out multiple times throughout the day will help your brain produce dopamine, a neurotransmitter involved in motivation, focus and pleasure.
Another of my favorites is walnuts. Walnuts are a powerhouse for the brain, and a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, an essential nutrient that supports healthy brain cells. These fatty acids also support a positive mood, a good night’s sleep, better memory and more.
Saffron is the final one that I want to mention. Saffron has been used for many centuries as a culinary spice, digestion aid and mood–boosting aid. Saffron may promote healthy levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that contributes to feelings of happiness and well-being. Unfortunately, it is known as the most expensive spice in the world.
So, there you have it! A few pearls of feel-good knowledge. Eat and be happy!
Pray Unceasingly!!
Lois