New Delhi:
Banana is called a ‘happy fruit’ but did you also know that there are other food out there that can be the ‘magic pill’ to your harried mood? We are often advised to stay happy, positive, but the factors that contribute for a peaceful and happy mind can become a challenge especially in this day and age with rapid increase in stress, anxiety, decline of mental health and the likes.
So, how to we maintain the pace of keeping a smile on the face? Recent research has demonstrated that a number of foods not only work with your brain to make you feel happier and more relaxed, they also have similar effects on the body as taking prescription anti-depressants, anti-anxiety and muscle relaxants.
Let us take a look at some of these foods to stay happy:
Avocado: Regarded as a protein-rich fruit\vegetable, avocado contains typtophan, an essential amino acid used by the brain to produce serotonin— the ‘feel good’ central nervous system neurotransmitter is found in abundance in this fruit.
Berries: Delicious berries such as blueberries, raspberries and strawberries which are a great source of antioxidants also contains anthocyanidins and anthocyanins, a pigment which can help reduce depression and stress.
Tomatoes: Eaten as a vegetable but regarded as a fruit, tomatoes contain lycopene— an antioxidant that helps fight inflammation in the brain making the mood more relaxed and calmer.
Apricots: Apricots are loaded with vitamin C and beta-carotene an antioxidant which researchers have linked to reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Lemon: A rich source of Vitamin C which is the main source of antioxidants, a Japanese study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine reveal that just the scent of citrus fruits, like lemon, can improve a person’s mood.
So, are you decking up your refrigerator with these mentioned fruits?
