The happiness diet: Foods that boost your mood this winter

The winter season is finally here. There is nothing better than enjoying food wrapped around a warm blanket and heater right in front of you. The cozy, warm feeling with hot, sizzling, delicious food in front of you is all you need in winter. While for most winters are enjoyable, many people experience a shift in their mood with weather change called

winter blues

. If you too are feeling sad and lethargic during winter, you need to add these mood boosters to your diet.

Did you know that there are

foods that boost your mood

in winter? Let’s find out more about the

happiness diet

:

Dark chocolate

Winters are the ideal time to treat yourself with sweet delights, and who can say no to dark chocolate? Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, boosts serotonin levels, and is a great mood-enhancing snack. However, health experts recommend eating them in moderation as they are high in calories, saturated fat, and sugar. Also, some dark chocolates may contain heavy metals like lead and cadmium.

Fish

Fish are healthy and delicious; they contain

omega-3 fatty acids

. Fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are known to support brain function and reduce depression symptoms. It is rich in vitamin D, which helps to fight through the winter blues by keeping your immune system strong.

Sweet potato

Winter blues are hard to fight, but eating sweet potato can ease the pain by giving you the warmth and comfort you deserve in winter. Sweet potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates and vitamin A. Sweet potatoes help maintain blood sugar levels and are packed with antioxidants.

Leafy greens

Winters come with seasonal depression, and you need essential vitamins to keep you happy and energized during the winter blues. Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard help to produce serotonin; they release happy hormones and help boost your mood while keeping you healthy and energetic.

Seeds and nuts

If you are constantly craving snacks or food during winter, then you must eat seeds and nuts like almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds, which are packed with magnesium that reduces anxiety and improves your mood. Nuts and seeds can make you feel full for long hours.
Egg

Eggs are comforting and nutritious winter meals; they can boost your mood and keep you healthy and energetic. They are rich in nutrients, protein, vitamin D, and B. Eggs are versatile; you can enjoy scrambled, boiled, and add them to salad or soup.

Winter blues can make you feel depressed and rot in bed all day, but eating healthy and nutritious food can help boost your mood, improve your immune system, and keep you energetic.