When the gloomy December reminds of itself with a gray sky, temperatures below zero, and prickly scarves, all that remains is to wrap yourself in a blanket and indulge in melancholy.
That's why it's so important and necessary to feel happy at this time of the year. Fortunately, it is possible because there are products that can improve your mood since there is a close relationship between what you eat and how you feel.
When eating a particular food, your "happy hormones" are activated - serotonin, dopamine, and other related substances, such as the amino acid tryptophan.
Contained in some foods, it increases serotonin levels in the body and improves well-being. Since serotonin is produced on warm, sunny days, it's no surprise that you need an increased dose of happiness in winter.
Large amounts of tryptophan are found in bananas, nuts, dates, and cheese. Red or black caviar is perfect too.
Great news for those with a sweet tooth: chocolate indeed improves your mood. That is due to the high content of beneficial tryptophan. Moreover, the magnesium present in it increases stress resistance and has a calming effect. Perhaps you should reserve a few more bars, after all?
Spicy food lovers are also among the satisfied people, especially after eating spicy food, such as chili peppers. Spiciness causes a mild pain response in your brain, contributing to the production of "happy hormones" - endorphins. As a result, a good mood is guaranteed.
Another group of nutrients that make you happy is omega-3 fatty acids.
Products rich in omega-3 not only make you feel better but are also very important for the functioning of your body. These unsaturated fatty acids are involved in the proper functioning of the brain and the production of serotonin. A lack of them can lead to depression and apathy. Since your body cannot fully synthesize omega-3 on its own, it is strongly recommended to consume food rich in this substance. These include avocados, flaxseed oil, fish, and walnuts.
The good news for those who prefer seafood and vegetables: they are rich in the amino acid tyrosine. This amino acid stimulates the production of dopamine and norepinephrine. Thus, tyrosine improves your mood and has antidepressant effects. Oysters, salmon, tuna, spinach, strawberries will dilute the gloom of December, adding a little more joy that you definitely deserve on cold winter days.
