Beat the blues: eight foods that will make you healthier and happier!

We’ve just pulled out of what statistically is, the most stressful few months of the year. Post-Christmas bills, short days and an abundance of darkness… it’s no wonder we felt a little low! But fear not, it’s getting sunnier and we’ve compiled a list of foods that will help you towards your bikini bod whilst giving you a little bit of a happy boost.

1. Salmon

By eating fatty fish twice a week as part of a healthy diet, it’s been proven that you could significantly reduce any feelings of hostility and sadness. Salmon is jam-packed with omega-3 fatty acids that is great for brainpower and concentration, and vitamin D, both of which boost that happy-feel serotonin in the brain.

2. Turkey

Say hello to your chicken replacement. Just chuck some diced turkey breast in a wok with a bit of coconut oil and you’ve got yourself the perfect low fat, high protein addition to your meal. Turkey also contains typtophan that contributes to the production of feel good hormones and also aids a restful night’s sleep.

3. Spinach

Spinach contains the B vitamin folate, a deficiency in which can contribute to feeling low. Aside from this, all that iron is going to make you feel super energetic and powerful!

4. Bananas

Bananas contain vitamin B6, a vitamin that is also great for boosting those make-happy neurotransmitters in your noggin. It’s also got a lot of energy-producing potassium, alongside magnesium, which elevates ones mood.

5. Asparagus

Woohoo! Asparagus contains more folate and more tryptophan, which in turn means more energy and serotonin for us. Serotonin is one of the brain’s key mood-stabilizing neurotransmitters and its precursor, folic Acid, can be found in abundance in asparagus and other leafy greens.

6. Greek Yoghurt

Lots of calcium and lots of protein, far more than in milk and normal yoghurt. This will improve you brain function and will release lots of happy neurotransmitters. Add a cheeky bit of honey too, which is by far the best sugar replacement because it won’t let your body crash. Honey also helps prevent depression and has less impact on blood-sugar levels than regular sugar.

7. Eggs

Eggs are just full of zinc, vitamin B, iodine, omega-3 fatty acids, and protein. These bad boys will keep you fuller for longer and will keep you super energised! It also contains amino acid tryptophan, which can help stabilize mood and promote a decent night’s sleep.

8. Mushrooms

Vitamin D, vitamin B5 and Copper. Tasty business. Mushrooms, when eaten in moderation with a healthy diet, will boost your immune system. Hooray! It’s also been suggested that they can improve the state of skin and hair, cleanse the liver, boost energy and promote memory and concentration.

Build these foods into a healthy diet, full of leafy greens and the like, alongside a good exercise regime. These super foods will do some of the work, but most of it has to come from you! Take control of your life and find little ways to make your day, every day. Be sure to surround yourself with friends, take it easy on the alcohol, and get lots of fresh air.

 Elizabeth Finney