Happy Food Choices: Foods That Make You Happy

Can food boost your mood? Yes, it can. As the old saying goes, you are what you eat. Eating happy hormones food can perk you up so you’re ready to take on the day. If you’ve been feeling stressed out lately, consider whipping up a meal with ingredients from our happy hormones food list.

Dark Chocolate

It comes as no surprise that chocolate is among the foods that make you happy. However, you should go for dark chocolate as it’s proven to be food with happy hormones. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants that fight free radical damage, which can damage the brain. If you want to try this food for happy mood, try our easy cookie ice-cream sandwich recipe. 

Salmon

Oily fish like wild-caught salmon and sardines are excellent dietary sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. These acids can improve your mood and fight depression and inflammation. That’s why salmon is on our happy hormones food list. If you’re looking for an easy way to enjoy this food that can boost your mood, give our Sinigang na Salmon recipe a try. 

Yogurt

Because it’s a fermented food, yogurt provides probiotics that help promote a healthy gut. A healthy gut equals a happier mindset, so yogurt is a happy mood food. Contrary to what you might think, yogurt is not just a yummy dessert. You can use Greek Yogurt as a marinade to add some flavor to your meat dishes. 

Olive Oil

Because it’s one of the healthiest fats, olive oil can provide monounsaturated fatty acids, known to have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. People who consume plenty of olive oil tend to have a better cognitive function and less depression. Our Garlic Tuna Pasta recipe is a garlicky way to enjoy this happy food. 

Walnuts

Another excellent source of antioxidants and Omega-3 is walnuts. Not only are walnuts a food that can boost your mood, but they’re also good for your brain and cognitive health. A creamy way to enjoy this happy mood food is our Waldorf Salad recipe. 

Bananas

An awesome happy food you can consume anytime, anywhere is the good ‘ol banana. A good source of electrolytes and carbohydrates, bananas provide the body and brain with energy and tryptophan. In case you’re wondering, tryptophan is an amino acid with a calming effect. You can enjoy the mood-boosting properties of bananas through our Banana Pecan Bread recipe. 

Eggs

Did you know that egg yolk is an excellent source of choline, a compound that improves your brain function? This food for happy mood is packed with protein and vitamin B12, which can keep your energy levels up. If you’re looking for a delectable way for everyone to enjoy this happy food at your next party, try our Creamy Deviled Eggs recipe.