Foods that Fight the Winter Blues

Posted March 21, 2015 by PTI Admin

Its been a very long winter and we all know that this weather can be very draining and make us feel a bit blue. What to do? Aside from finding ways to fix your problem, try these comfort foods to make you happy. The secret is in choosing foods rich in omega-3 fats, folic acid, selenium, and vitamin B12. These nutrients can lift your spirit and help put a smile on your face!!!!

Milk, preferably skim milk. Milk products are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid our brain needs in order to make serotonin. Serotonin is a natural chemical that makes us happy and calm. Chocolate. Who needs an excuse to eat chocolate? Not me. Chocolate contains anadamine, a brain chemical that helps brighten our mood.

Rice, bread, noodles or pasta. Here’s our favorite comfort food – carbohydrates. Don’t believe all those low carb diets they can actually make you crabby and gloomy. Eating healthy carbohydrates can increase our serotonin levels, which has a calming effect.

Oily fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines. Oily fishes are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, which can lift our mood. Most fish are also packed with vitamin B6 and B12, which are involved in the production of serotonin.

Bananas. Bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin. And we know that serotonin is a hormone that makes us cheerful.

Broccoli. Broccoli is another amazing food that is full of vitamin B’s, the vitamin that helps fight stress. Studies show that folate or folic acid in broccoli can improve our temperament.

Spinach. Like broccoli, spinach is packed with folic acid, an important B vitamin for making serotonin, the body’s feel-good chemical.

Blueberries. Blueberries are abundant in antioxidants and vitamin C, which are known stress-busters.

Beans and soybeans. Beans are packed with soluble fiber, folic acid, and omega-3 fats, the three ingredients known to improve our mood.

Nuts. Nutritional power foods, rich in protein, minerals (especially selenium), and omega-3 fats.

Coffee Caffeine is probably the world’s most popular mood-enhancing drug. Coffee boosts your energy levels, makes you feel more alert, and can improve your memory. A single cup of coffee with milk in the morning can jump tart your day.

Source: PTI Buzz – March 10, 2014

filed under: Health FAQ,Nutrition