There is some science behind food contributing to your moods and wellbeing. Now, we are in a period of stress, lockdown and an overwhelming feeling of uncomfortableness. Covid-19 has got people feeling scared, anxious, stressed and overwhelmed. People are now self-isolating but also panic buying – please stop that! – self-isolation doesn’t have to mean you are feeling cut off from the world, maybe it’s time to look within and look after yourselves by eating right, exercising and doing what’s right for society!
We will post some recipes that incorporate some mood boosting foods, but we thought we would start you off with a list of a few items that should be quite easy to buy during this time of endless empty shelves. I’ve personally been to Sainsbury’s, Aldi and Tesco to check if these items are in stock and so far they have been.
Please note, we are not nutritionists or doctors! We are just hardcore researchers that want to help people feel good. So please, please, please do your own research, speak to a medical professional and do what works for you!
Salmon
Salmon is rich is Omega-3 fatty acids which contribute to a healthy brain. It’s known to help with decreasing the feeling of anxiety, lowering the risk of depression and responding positively to stress. B12 is also present in Salmon which helps the brain produce chemicals that affect mood. We’ll post some super easy recipes with salmon, but it’s such an easy fish to cook. Skin on or off. Pan-fried or oven baked, wrapped in pastry or drizzled with oil and lemon – super easy and versatile.
Edamame Beans
Edamame beans are young soy beans – who knew?! They are high in protein but also rich in vitamins, one being folate. Folate is a type of Vitamin B, it has been linked to improve mood as a higher level of folate results in higher levels of BH4 which is important in the making of dopamine and serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical that boosts your mood! Don’t take our word for it – research it.
Edamame beans are super easy to prepare – you can incorporate them into salads, stir fry’s or just season them and have them as a snack! Recipes coming soon!
Chocolate
I love that chocolate is a mood booster! Dark chocolate more so as it contains compounds that stimulate endorphins – the same that are released after you laugh. It also helps you produce more serotonin which again makes you feel happier. Now, we’re not saying go and eat a load of chocolate – that can’t be good for anyone. Everything in moderation! Chocolate is so versatile!! Eat it as it is, make chocolate covered strawberries anyone?! Chocolate brownies, chocolate cake, chocolate and chilli!?
That’s all for now but we will be doing more on mood boosting – we’d love to hear your thoughts -comments welcomed!
– Raj xo
moodfooddiary.wordpress.com 