Eat well, sleep well and plenty of exercise.

It’s the simplest way to live well and feel great, but if your mood could do with a boost then here’s the heads up on seven foods to make you feel good.

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Oats

Opting for oats in the morning is one of the best ways to start your day, as they contain the mineral selenium, which can help mood by regulating the function of the thyroid gland. Since oats have a low glycaemic index, they release energy slowly into the bloodstream, preventing any sugar highs and crashes.

 

Chocolate

Opt for this one sparingly, as the calorie count may undo any happiness you get from indulging. Enjoying good quality dark chocolate in small portions every day has been proven to reduce stress hormones.

 

Leafy Greens

There’s a reason your mam and dad made sure you ate your greens at the dinner table. Leafy greens contain Folate, a B vitamin that affects the neurotransmitters that impact your mood.

 

Salmon

A tasty teatime treat, salmon contains omega-3 fatty acids that have been shown to have therapeutic benefits in depressed children.

 

Beans

Kidney beans, black beans and chickpeas are high in fiber and water content, making them an excellent substitute for meat. They are also high in antioxidants and protein.

 

Eggs

Eggs are one of the few foods that contain Vitamin D, aka the sunshine vitamin. You know how sunshine boosts you mood? Well, that, in food form.

 

Bananas

The humble banana is a bit of a superfood, containing amino acid tryptophan, which raises serotonin levels, along with vitamins A, B6 and C, fiber, potassium, phosphorous, iron and carbohydrate.