3 Foods That Improve Mood

Do you often feel an energy drop in the middle of the morning? Or ask yourself, around 3 to 4 PM, “How am I going to go through the rest of the day?” Are you the type to become more and more irritable, aggressive as meal time approaches?

These variations in energy and mood could be closely related to variations in your blood sugar level. Indeed, when blood sugar falls below a certain threshold, various symptoms can be felt, such as irritability, mood swings, sugar cravings, tiredness, or even a headache.

In order to keep your blood sugar more stable and to prevent these inconveniences, it is preferable to do the following:

• Limit the consumption of foods that are a source of refined sugars (white bread, candies, pastries, soft drinks, etc.);
• Make sure to balance your nutrition with a sufficient quantity of fiber and protein.

Here are 3 foods to include in your nutrition that will help you stabilize your blood sugar, and consequently, improve your mood!

Blackberries

This small berry is very rich in fiber: 8 g per serving of 250 ml (1 cup). High in antioxidants (anti cancer compounds), blackberries are also a source of vitamin C, beta-carotene, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium.

–> For your snack, mix one cup (250 ml) of blackberries with ¼ cup (60 ml) of cottage cheese for a real treat!

Kiwis

We should give it a larger share of our nutrition. Did you know that kiwis contain more vitamin C than oranges? This fruit is an excellent source of digestive enzymes, which means that when we eat it, the body needs less energy to digest it. Vitality and energy are therefore improved afterward.

Soy beans

They already have a great reputation, however, many remain hesitant about integrating them to their nutrition. Rich in fiber and protein, and a source of calcium, iron, omega-3 fatty acids, as well as vitamins C and B3, they provide the body with lasting energy.

When you have guests over, instead of serving fatty snacks as appetizers, use immature soy beans (also called edamame beans) sprinkled with a pinch of fleur de sel. Limit yourself to ¼ – ½ cup (60 to 125 ml).

–> For your snack, you could also eat 1 to 2 tablespoons (15 to 30 ml) of dried soy beans with a fruit of your choice.

By Marilyne Petitclerc

3 Foods That Improve Mood is a post from Nautilus Plus. The Nautilus Plus blog aims to help people in their journey to fitness through articles on training, nutrition, motivation, exercise and healthy recipes.
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