5 Foods To Eat For A More Positive Outlook

It appears that "you are what you eat" includes one's feelings as well, and the latest research indicates that a diet comprising plenty of fruit, vegetables, fish, and whole grains can help lower the risk of depression in adults. With that in mind, dietitian Sally Shi-Po Poon suggests the following foods to help you naturally boost your mood:

1. Germinated brown rice

Above Photo: Courtesy of Unsplash

Germinated brown rice is rich in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps us to relax and can improve our mood. The amount of GABA in germinated brown rice was found to be 10 times more than that in milled white rice and twice that of regular brown rice.

Carbohydrates are important to ensure a stable amount of glucose in the blood throughout the day, as your brain needs glucose for concentration. Not having enough glucose in our blood can make us feel tired and grumpy. Healthy sources of carbohydrates include whole grains, vegetables, fruits, legumes, and low-fat dairy.

2. Chicken

Above Photo: Courtesy of Pexels

Chicken is rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that produces serotonin—otherwise known as the "happiness hormone"—which can assist in boosting your mood. More of this may cross to the brain when carbohydrates are consumed.

Your body can get a healthy dose of tryptophan if you eat a variety of protein-rich foods including meat, poultry, fish, seafood, eggs, dairy products, lentils, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

3. Spinach

Above Photo: Courtesy of Unsplash

Spinach is an excellent source of folate, a B vitamin that may help reduce the risk of depression. Asparagus, beef liver, brussels sprouts, oranges, kidney beans, and fortified breakfast cereals are also good sources of folate.

Since it is a water-soluble vitamin, folate is lost easily during cooking. This can be reduced by steaming or microwaving vegetables instead of boiling.

(Related: 8 Vegan Beauty Products On Our Radar)

4. Green tea

Above Photo: Courtesy of Pexels

Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that has calming properties and works with the caffeine to improve concentration. It is vital to drink enough fluids throughout the day, as research shows that even minor dehydration can affect your concentration and mood. Aim for 1.5 to 2 litres fluid per day: water, low-fat milk, plant-based milk, soups, tea and coffee all count.

However, keep in mind that too much caffeine can cause problems like insomnia, headaches, restlessness, and anxiety. Up to 400mg of caffeine per day is safe for most healthy adults, although some people are more sensitive to the effects of caffeine than others.

5. Sardines

Above Photo: Courtesy of Mega Sardines

Sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been proven effective in combatting the risk of depression. Aim for at least two 3.5 ounce (100g) servings of cooked fish per week. Varieties of fish that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids include salmon, mackerel, herring, trout, and albacore tuna.

(Related: 5 Foods To Eat For Healthy Skin)

This article first appeared on hk.asiatatler.com.

Topics

Wellness Nutrition Food Diet Mediterranean diet Mood Booster