Are you feeling blue, lack energy, or experiencing sleep problems? You may be experiencing SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder). As SAD sufferers know, these symptoms seem to surface when days grow shorter and there’s less sunlight.
There are natural ways to combat this condition, and in my research, I’ve found that the foods we eat can play a major role in lifting depression and mood in general! Researchers have identified ten nutrients that can combat depression and boost mood: calcium, chromium, folate, iron, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin B-6, vitamin B-12, vitamin D and zinc.
I’ve composed a list of foods that you can easily have on hand to lift mood and fight depression this fall and winter.
Kale, yogurt, asparagus, beets, tomatoes, eggs, salmon, broccoli, turkey, avocado, spinach, black eyed peas, lentils, almonds, peanuts, chia seeds, chick peas, chicken, mozzarella cheese, tuna, roasted pumpkin seeds, brussels sprouts, oatmeal, oranges
I’ve saved the best for last. 70% dark chocolate made the list!!!
Its been discovered that dark chocolate helps reduce stress hormones like cortisol and lifts depression by increasing serotonin and endorphins in the brain. One ounce contains only 6-8 grams of sugar.
Do keep in mind, however, that 1.4 ounces of chocolate contains 235 calories, so do eat in moderation or you may be stressed to see extra pounds creeping on!