The foods that we consume affects our bodies in various ways. In so many cases, we don’t even realise that what we are eating is affecting the way we feel. That’s right, foods and fruit can affect your mood and emotions! Here are some foods that you should certainly try in order to boost your mood and get back to feeling like your old self.

Dark chocolate

When you eat dark chocolate, the various compounds in this delicious treat help increase the production of feel-good hormones in your brain. Remember, not all chocolate is the same and milk or white chocolate do not offer these same benefits. Dark chocolate has a higher cocoa content and it can also help in terms of your magnesium levels. For those who have become accustomed to the taste of milk chocolate, it might take some getting used to but, once you get into the habit of choosing dark chocolate, you won’t look back. While chocolate is not necessarily part of the foods and fruit category, it is a healthier option than cake when you have a sugar craving too.

Fermented foods

Gut health is more important than most people realise. As much 90% of your body’s serotonin (a feel-good hormone) is produced in the gut. This is why good gut health helps improve your mood. Try including fermented foods like sauerkraut, yogurt and kefir in your diet to give your body back some of those essential probiotics.

Bananas

Easily one of the most loved fruits of all time, bananas are rich in natural sugar and vitamin B6 as well as prebiotic fiber. This makes it one of the best foods and fruit to help keep your sugar levels as well as your mood stable.

Oats

Fibre is extremely important for your overall health. Oats will help maintain sugar levels and thereby boost your mood. They are also great for regulating and lowering cholesterol and boosting iron levels. Consider a healthy breakfast that includes oats at least every few days. You can also mix oats with other foods and fruit to make delicious savoury or sweet snacks like health bars to nibble on during the day.

Fresh berries

Berries are delicious and guilt-free snacks. They are also packed full of nutrients including anthocyanins which help fight a variety of diseases. Berries are one of the best foods and fruit for keeping depression at bay.

Nuts

Different types of nuts have different vitamins and minerals. Many of them contain zinc, selenium and tryptophan. These are believed to support brain function and decrease the risk of depression. All great reasons to add nuts to your diet! You can include them in various recipes or simply enjoy them as a snack or in your smoothie.

Coffee

Like dark chocolate, coffee should be enjoyed in moderation. Technically it’s not a food, but it is something that many people consume daily and, according to various studies, coffee can help boost your mood. Enjoy a cup of quality coffee in the morning and see how it changes your day.

If you want to boost your own mood or send a gift hamper to offer support to a loved one, consider foods and fruit that will help improve their mood and fight off depression.