Foods to Make You Happy

It is interesting how much the foods we eat actually influence how we feel. While it is important to have a positive mental attitude and do those things that help keep us emotionally healthy, it will be difficult to do this if our diet is not adequate.

The foods we eat are the building blocks for our body. If the body is doing its regular repair and maintenance work and the necessary ingredients are not there, the repair and maintenance still goes on. The result though is a weakened structure. Over time this can seriously set one up for ill health.

How we feel, whether we are happy or sad is not only regulated by external circumstances or by how well we manage our self talk. It is also influenced by the food we eat. There are amino acids (proteins), vitamins and minerals that are needed to make sure that neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and epinephrine are present in the correct proportions.
These neurotransmitters, amongst other things, are able to increase levels of alertness and energy.

Some examples of nutrients and foods that help to increase happiness are:

Folate

• Green leafy vegetables
• Beet root,
• Strawberries
• Oranges
  

Vitamin B6

• Beans
• Nuts
• Eggs
• Meats
• Fish
• Avocados
• Bananas
  

Vitamin B12

• Meat
• Fish
• Poultry
• Eggs
• Milk

Selenium

• Brazil nuts
• Walnuts
• Eggs
• Tuna
• Meats
• Legumes

Magnesium

• Green leafy vegetables
• Nuts and seeds
• Whole grains
• Fish
• Quinoa
• Avocados
• Bananas
• Potatoes

Foods that can help to keep depression and anxiety at bay, and increase memory and concentration are certainly useful in building a healthier and happier life.

If the right nutrients are not available your body will find it very hard to keep you feeling happy, alert and energetic.

Stay healthy
Jocelyn