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9 foods that make us happier
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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Everyone experiences mood swings from time to time. But fortunately, there are products that can drive away negative emotions, improve a person’s physical and emotional state, and lift their spirits.
Foods that can make a person happier are natural antidepressants, so remember them well in case the blues decide to visit you.
Dark chocolate
Not only a tasty product, but also very healthy. Dark chocolate is rich in magnesium, a mineral that relieves muscle tension and suppresses anxiety. Tryptophan, an amino acid also found in dark chocolate, can reduce symptoms of depression. Just don’t overdo it with doses of happiness, because only a few grams of this delicacy per day is enough.
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Salmon
This fish contains omega-3 fatty acids, which fight depression and mood swings, and support heart health. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids improve memory and attention.
Spinach
These green leaves are a real storehouse of folic acid and vitamin B, which, according to scientists, are excellent mood "boosters". Don't believe me? Watch the cartoon about Popeye the Sailor, where the puny sailor turned into a real superman after eating a bunch of spinach. This plant will help you gain strength, become cheerful and energetic, like the cartoon character.
Chicken
White chicken meat contains vitamin B12, which is an essential component that ensures the production of serotonin. A deficiency of the happiness hormone causes fatigue and makes a person irritable. Serotonin also promotes normal sleep.
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Tofu
An excellent dietary product and a real find for vegetarians, but even if you are not one of them, still include this cheese in your diet. Tofu is a valuable source of tryptophan, thanks to which the body actively produces serotonin, and therefore provides you with a charge of good mood.
Avocado
A real source of energy and vitality. The fats in this product mainly consist of monounsaturated fatty acids, which have a beneficial effect on blood vessels and the heart, and also reduce cholesterol levels. To feel a surge of strength and energy, it is enough to eat half an avocado a day, its tonic substances will perfectly cope with your gloomy mood.
Greek yogurt
You don't have to go to Greece to get this product, you can make it at home. You could say that Greek yogurt is our sour milk, only very thickened. It is rich in calcium and vitamins, which normalize digestion and calm the nervous system. Calcium improves brain function, helping it release neurotransmitters, biologically active substances responsible for a good mood.
Green tea
It is rich in amino acids, and theanine gives it protective properties, thus suppressing excitability. Therefore, in a stressful situation, before grabbing valerian, brew a cup of aromatic green tea.
Berries
Strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries contain anthocyanidins and anthocyanins, nutrients that help prevent stress and depression. In addition, tasty and juicy berries improve mood and support human cognitive health.
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