It is quite normal to feel low sometimes. It might be due to seasonal changes, or right after the realization that weekend is nearly over, or sometimes without any reason. In an effort to battle those blues people often go for comfort food such as binging on 2 liters of ice cream or a big double-decker fatty burger with lots of fries. However, these can act as temporary mood-boosters but eventually will lead you to pay afterwards. Here is the list of top five healthy food items that can elevate your mood granting you sustainable happiness.

Food # 5: Mushrooms

Mushrooms are delicious. Amazingly, they are rich in Vitamin D and selenium which includes them amongst foods to eat to improve mood. Both of these components are known for enhancing mood. On the other hand, deficiency of selenium can lead to greater risk of depression, anxiety and fatigue. Several studies reveal that around 11 million Americans suffer from seasonal affective disorder. You can recover from it with an adequate intake of Vitamin D. Therefore, adding mushrooms into your regular diet and not only in pizzas can help you remain cheerful for longer.

Food # 4: Berries

Berries are phenomenal and without any doubt can be added to the foods to eat to make you happy. All types of berries are known to be rich in plenty of flavanoids, anthocyanins, and phytochemicals which act as antioxidants diminishing the oxidative stress in brain and body. This reduces aging of the brain, in turn improving cognitive functions and overall mental wellbeing. So, next time when you are upset just go and make yourself a delicious smoothie and then enjoy a happy day ahead.

Food # 3: Oats

Oats are said to be epic mood boosters and are amongst the topmost foods to eat to make you happy as they have low glycemic index which slowly releases energy keeping you happy all day long. Additionally, oatmeal consists of tryptophan and omega-3-fatty acids which are directly linked in producing happy hormones which grants one feeling of contentment and happiness. Recently published book named Thrive: Finding Happiness the Blue Zones Way reveals that people who consume oatmeal as their breakfast are comparatively 20 to 30% happier throughout the day from those who eat bacon, meat, or eggs.

Food # 2: Dark Chocolate

Hearing the name of dark chocolate only brings a big smile on one’s face. Yes, there is a very big scientifically proven connection of dark chocolates with our good mood. Dark chocolates, particularly those which are high in cocoa but low in sugars are known to be healthier and mood elevating. Dark chocolate has the potential to stimulate our brain in the right way and release endorphins, the feel-good hormones that slow down the production of cortisol, the stress-causing hormones. Also, dark chocolate possesses large quantities of magnesium which has a major role in the development of serotonin, the happy-mood brain neurotransmitter.

Food # 1: Banana

Banana is the number one food amongst foods to eat to improve mood as eating it can instantly make you happy. It is rich in tryptophan which is later converted to serotonin. Increased levels of serotonin makes one feel happy and tryptophan regulates blood sugar and produces stress-relieving relaxation. Tryptophan also helps people to sleep peacefully. Many doctors recommend patients with insomnia to consume banana on daily basis.