The food we consume every day is extremely important for mental and physical health, but also for normal functioning. Certain foods have been proven to improve mood, if consumed regularly.
Dopamine, one of the hormones of happiness, enhances the feeling of well-being and satisfaction. Certain foods can stimulate the release of dopamine, so it’s important to eat foods that will increase your levels of these hormones.
Here’s what foods improve your mood and why:
Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, so it is extremely powerful due to the content of phenylethylamine, which can improve mood and increase dopamine levels in the brain.
Dark chocolate can be a good pre-workout snack as it boosts energy levels.
Fish and eggs
Fish and eggs are high in protein, so they’re great for boosting dopamine.
Fish is additionally rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which play a major role in dopamine receptor function.
Nutritionists recommend adding protein-rich foods to your diet.
– “It helps us build muscle and helps us recover better. Higher protein intake is associated with better mood”.
Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are a source of healthy fats and other nutrients.
Seeds and nuts have nutritional value and are rich in tyrosine – an amino acid that participates in building dopamine.
Avocado
Avocado is a source of healthy fats, has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps control blood sugar levels.
It also contains significant amounts of folate, or vitamin B9, which helps the brain produce dopamine.
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