Foods for your mood

Sometimes it happens to us that we are in a position that we feel like having specific food as we  maybe depressed or happy. We eat chocolates to celebrate something or when we are happy and sometime when are sad we eat loads of junk food. These happens with everybody some or the other day. Why is that whenever we feel upset or depressed about something many of us automatically find ourselves reaching out for our favorite food? Or why is a celebration always associated with chocolate or sweets? Its all because what we want is comfort food. I had read an article about some food items which gives comfort to our mood. Though consuming these food items regularly is not good as it may adversely affect your health due to their high calories or fat content. But consuming it not frequent basis doesn't create that bad affect.

Dark chocolate : 

Chocolates, in general are loaded with chemicals that enhance mood, serotonin in particular, whose release is triggered when chocolate is consumed. It also said that chocolate contains some of the same mood enhancing chemicals. Dark chocolates is especially  good as it contains a higher percentage of coca and less sugar than milk chocolate. The anti-oxidants and flavonoids present in dark chocolate help to reduce blood clot formation, cancer and heart disease. And since too much of anything is bad, dark chocolate should be eaten in moderation, especially by those who are watching their weight.

Oranges : 

Oranges are a rich source of vitamin C containing up to 1000mg of it. They also contain antioxidants which prevent the formation of free radicals that cause cell damage. When the body is stressed, it releases even more free radicals than usual. Therefore, vitamin C offers the body protection from their harmful effects. Incidentally, Vitamin C is a proven immune system booster.

Green Vegetables : 

You may not like the look green vegetables so do I. Still we all know they have a lot to offer in terms of health benefits. Broccoli is packed with Vitamin B and folic acid. It provides stress relief, helps to enhance mood with with regard to depression, panic, anxiety and other emotional disorders. Many green veggies contain potassium which greatly helps calm one's nerves when stressed. Also, a diet rich in green vegetables helps the body feel lighter and feel great. 

Yogurt : 

Besides being a good source of protein, calcium and vitamin B12, yogurt also contains a whole lot of useful bacteria. It is good for digestion and stomach infection and helps to improve the body immune system. So if you are carving for something sweet, try out a bowl of yogurt with a spoon of honey added to it. It will make you happy and keep you healthy too.

Asparagus : 

Asparagus is rich in folic acid and contains magnesium that are famed for their mood lightening properties. Most importantly, it is low on calories and does not contain fat or cholesterol. Incidentally it belongs to the same plant family as leeks, garlic and onions. Baby  asparagus stalks are tender, crunchy and tasty all the same time making them perfect anytime snack.

Nuts : 

Various nuts like almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts and even peanuts are packed with vitamins and nutrients. Almonds are know to contain serotonin, Vitamin E, vitamin B2 also known as  Riboflavin and anti-ox-dants that improve immune system. They are also known to cut down the harmful effects of stress. Next time when you are feeling down, help yourself to some crunchy nuts.

Water: 

Though water cannot be classified as a food item, it plays a crucial role in the smooth functioning of the body. Drinking lots of water is essential to maintain good skin, hair and eyes. And why is that important? Because when you look good, you also feel good. Lack of consumption of water leads to dehydration and even small case of dehydration can cause stress. SO drink up as I have started doing it.