10 Foods That Will Help You Feel Happier

Serotonin (happiness hormone) and endorphin (responsible for relieving stress and increasing pleasure) are substances whose mission is to provide a feeling of happiness and well-being.

Both substances are very helpful in  regulating sleep and managing stress, and could not enter our bodies without the help of tryptophan and tyrosine. On the other hand, it  is carbohydrates that manage to carry this substance to the brain and produce a pleasurable effect.

For this reason, we recommend below 10 foods to make you feel happier and in a completely natural way.

Food to make you feel happier

In this article, we are going to recommend 10 foods that will undoubtedly improve your mood.

1. Fish

According to a study by the University of Pittsburgh,  people with low levels of omega 3 fatty acids are at increased risk for depression and bad mood.

This nutrient is mainly found in fish. It is important, then, to incorporate fish into the weekly diet, as omega 3 must be consumed: the body does not produce it on its own.

2. Cherries

In addition to being an activator of serotonin, cherry produces endorphins, dopamine and norepinephrine in the body. These elements reduce irritability, improve sleep and increase levels of pain tolerance. In other words, they help you feel happier!

3. Nuts

The low level of selenium can cause irritability, insomnia and depression, according to research published in Nutrients . Nuts, therefore, are recommended to increase the mood, as they have a large amount of this substance.

4. Foods rich in vitamin B12

The B-complex vitamins together are great contributors to improving mood. However, vitamin B12 stands out for fulfilling the following functions:

• Increases energy.
• Reduces fatigue and tiredness.
• Regulates the nervous system.
• Increases physical, emotional and mental energy.
• Encourages mental serenity.

The following foods, in addition to being rich in vitamin B12, are a source of  zinc, iron and copper, elements that also influence good mood.

• Clams and oysters.
• Beef.
• Liver.
• Cheese.
• Egg.

5. Banana

Bananas are full of nutrients and fiber, are rich in minerals and give the body an excellent energy contribution. Because it contains tryptophan, it helps in the production of serotonin, causing a calming effect on the nervous system. It also reduces cholesterol levels and muscle cramps. It is also a natural antacid and lowers blood pressure.

6. Spicy foods

Spicy foods have a good amount of a chemical compound called capsaicin. When it comes in contact with the taste buds, it sends signals to the brain, originating endorphins, which  causes a feeling of euphoria and energy.

Capsaicin is also associated with clearing cancer cells and reducing neuropathic pain. Some trials even associate this substance with a reduction in inflammation, although most of them are carried out in animals.

7. Chocolate

Chocolate stimulates the production of endorphins in the body and increases serotonin in the brain. Contains theobromine, which provides a caffeine-like effect,  promoting performance, vitality and happiness.

Remember that  consumption of this food should be moderate, as it can cause addiction problems, increasing anxiety and causing other illnesses, such as overweight.

8. Pineapple

As it contains compounds that stimulate the production of serotonin, the  pineapple acts as a stimulant physical and emotional well-being. It is useful to improve concentration and fight insomnia, as well as serving as an anti-inflammatory.

9. Foods rich in zinc

A deficiency of this mineral can promote depression and low stress tolerance. Zinc-containing foods help with the assimilation of proteins and carbohydrates, as well as providing energy for the body.

Some of the foods that contain this mineral are:

• Chocolate.
• Peanut.
• Pumpkin and its seeds.

• Liver.
• Spinach.
• Mushrooms.
• Milk and its derivatives.
• Whole grains.
• Legumes.

10. Pasta

Carbohydrate-rich foods help balance mood, and pasta is one of them. Allows for good digestion, provides nutritional benefits and helps with physical performance.

Pasta also lowers cholesterol levels, provides a good amount of fiber to the body, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Improve your diet to increase happiness

A balanced consumption of the foods listed, combined with a healthy diet and daily exercise routine, will help you feel full and happy.

If even with these habits your mood does not improve, it is best to seek professional help.