Certain foods can help lift your mood by supporting brain chemicals such as serotonin and dopamine, reducing inflammation and keeping energy levels stable. The best choices include oily fish such as salmon, dark chocolate, bananas, oats, fermented foods such as yoghurt, and leafy vegetables.
Foods that support brain and gut health
- Oily fish: Salmon and tuna contain omega-3 fatty acids, which support brain health.
- Dark chocolate: Helps to release endorphins and dopamine, which create a sense of well-being.
- Fermented foods: yoghurt, kefir and kimchi support gut health, which is linked to brain wellbeing.
- Leafy vegetables: spinach and kale provide folic acid, which helps the body produce substances that promote a positive mood.
- Bananas: contain vitamin B6 and tryptophan, which help the body produce serotonin.
- Oats: complex carbohydrates that prevent a sharp drop in blood sugar and mood swings.
- Nuts and seeds: almonds and pumpkin seeds provide magnesium and zinc, which are essential for brain function.