We’ve all heard the saying, “food is life.” In a literal sense, the food we eat sustains us with the energy and nutrients we need to live every day. Not eating or drinking the right amount may lead to an unhealthy lifestyle and diseases.
On the other hand, “food is life” can also be interpreted as food being at the core of our existence. Whatever we eat doesn’t just affect our physical bodies but also our psychological and spiritual wellness.
With the world in disarray right now, food provides blessings and sustenance for people worldwide. And if you are looking for foods that promote happiness and wellness, here are seven of them:
Coffee
Coffee is a staple for those who need a boost every morning. It is also a favorite beverage for coffee junkies everywhere. It is well-known that coffee is packed with caffeine, a chemical that boosts energy and productivity. However, caffeine also releases neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, that boost mood and cognition. It is no wonder that coffee is a vital drink for people working from home, such as young professionals living in Alpina Heights in Parañaque City.
Banana
The shape of bananas resembles a smile. In a way, the fruit may make you happy because it is rich in vitamin B6 that helps synthesize serotonin and dopamine, two neurotransmitters that boost happiness.
Eating a large banana (roughly 136 grams) provides 16 grams of sugar and 3.5 grams of fiber, making it a healthy source of carbohydrates and other nutrients. If you eat it with oatmeal, the sugar and fiber will be released slowly into your bloodstream, resulting in more stable blood sugar levels.
Chocolate
Chocolate is a favorite sweet treat for a lot of people. Besides satisfying your sweet tooth, chocolate is rich in mood-boosting compounds such as caffeine, theobromine, and N-acylethanolamine. These improve blood flow to the brain, which could translate to a healthy and well-functioning nervous system.
While chocolate improves health, many brands might have too much sugar that isn’t good for you. Instead of going for the traditional milk chocolate or much sweeter white chocolate, go for dark chocolate instead. It may not be as sweet, but you won’t have to worry about extra calories or your blood sugar spiking.
Avocados
Avocados are among the favorite fruits of millennials and vegans because they are rich in healthy fats that promote hormone production. Eating avocados help balance your estrogen and testosterone levels, especially during stressful days. Having balanced hormones means you’ll feel less tired, more productive, and happier accomplishing your tasks.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, namely tuna and salmon, are packed with omega-3, which is excellent for the brain. Besides boosting brain health, fish also provides vitamin B12, which boosts mood and happiness-inducing chemicals that our bodies can’t produce on their own. Plus, the low calories in fish also helps people maintain their weight and cholesterol levels.
Honey
Honey is considered a healthier substitute to table sugar. Not only does it help sweet tooths satiate their cravings, but it also provides quercetin and kaempferol. These two compounds reduce inflammation and balance out your blood sugar levels. In a way, honey helps keep the brain functioning properly, reducing the risks of anxiety and depression symptoms.
Kiwi
If you prefer plant-based alternatives to fish, kiwis are your best option as they are rich in omega-3. Kiwis also have double the amount of serotonin as tomatoes, making them a tastier substitute for those who don’t like the red fruit-vegetable. Add kiwi to your oatmeal, smoothie, or eat them fresh to achieve a healthier and happier brain.
The foods we eat are a reflection of our lifestyles. What we choose to eat either keeps us healthy or leads us to sickness. Fortunately, these seven foods aren’t just tasty, but also promote happiness and wellness.
SOURCES:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mood-food
https://www.eatthis.com/instant-happiness-foods/
https://www.berries.com/blog/mood-boosting-foods
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