Foods That Make You Happy!

A nutritious, balanced diet is the key to good health and longevity. But did you know that some foods actually enhance mood and help maintain those all-important feel-good vibes?

Eating for happiness - as well as health - should be your primary goal.

To obtain the sustenance you need, include the following foods in your diet:

* Foods high in Omega 3 - i.e. oily fish, nuts, flax seeds. Omega 3 has been scientifically proven to reduce depression and increase happiness. Try also taking a daily supplement, too.

* Foods rich in tryptophan - i.e. lobster, turkey, pineapple, tofu, bananas. Tryptophan is converted by the body into the feel-good chemical serotonin, which increases your well-being.

* Foods with plenty of amino-acids - i.e. chicken, turkey, fish, cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, milk, nuts, pulses, bananas, avocados, wheat germ, and legumes. These foods help maintain correct amino acid levels, essential in balancing your mood.

* Foods which raise vitamin B levels - i.e. spinach, peas, orange juice, wheat germ or avocado. Solid vitamin B levels help safeguard yourself against depression.

Also:

* Whole grains such as oats, quinoa or brown rice contain B vitamins to ensure the slow release of sugars needed to maintain well-being.

* Carbohydrates, such as cereals, rice, pasta and starchy vegetables provide slow energy release to maintain a balanced metabolism.

* Regular 'energy snacks' such as fruit, cereal, seeds and nuts help maintain energy levels and good mood throughout the day.

* Pomegranates, goji berries, blueberries, raspberries, avocados, mangoes, apples, macadamia nuts, spirulina, broccoli and spinach - all super-foods that contribute to overall wellness.

And remember these feel-good food pointers:

* Vitamins and minerals - especially the B vitamins - are essential for correct functioning of the nervous system and help to prevent illness linked to depression, anxiety or dementia. Vitamin D supplements have been shown to help with Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Always take a good multi-vitamin and mineral supplement.

* Ditch adrenalin-fueling coffee and choose relaxing herbal and fruit teas to aid tranquility and boost well-being. Also drink a few glasses of water each day to maintain correct hydration.

* Eat fresh, organic foods where possible. Choose raw veggie or fruit options.

* Replace junk foods (high sugar / high salt / high fat / high additives content) with natural foods - vegetables, fruit, grains and seeds.

* Always eat in moderation.

* Believe in the healing properties of the food you're eating.

* Enjoy your food! Hang up your worries and frustrations before you sit down for dinner. When you think calm and happy thoughts while you're eating, it will aid your digestion and ensure that the food provides you with the energy and healing needed.

Treat your body well. It's the only one you have.

Good nutrition is essential to maintain optimum state of mind, body and spirit. What you choose to eat makes a real difference, so choose the perfect ingredients for a happy you!

For more information on how food can affect your mood, alongside ideal meal plans for your mind, visit www.foodandmood.org.