While many things may cause you to feel “blue” and grumpy, there are some foods that are known to have an uplifting effect on brain chemicals. The first thing many people head for when they are a little down is sugar. Sugar, however, is destructive and consuming sugary foods at any time only leads to poor health.
Although the immediate impact of eating a bowl of sugar-laden ice cream, for example, may be positive, it is a smoke screen to be sure. Within an hour of eating the ice cream, your elevated blood sugar begins to drop like a vicious dip on a roller coaster.
You hit the end of the ride feeling even more miserable than before and have nothing to show for your indulgence but perhaps an extra pound or two.
Consuming a diet rich in whole foods provides a good base for a constant stream of positive chemicals. Many people who are depressed are also nutrient deficient.
Boosting your mood with “real” foods is always the best choice and will have a long term impact that far outweighs anything offered by fast and processed foods.
Free Range Eggs
Free range eggs contain zinc, vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin D, calcium, iodine, omega 3- fatty acids and protein. Eggs are known to be a comfort food, and the calcium is reported to have a calming effect. The amino acid methionine, which eggs are abundant in, helps to build muscle tissue and break down fats and proteins.
Methionine, administered to rats has been proven to have antidepressant effects. Not only will regular consumption of eggs keep you upbeat, but a study found that people who enjoyed eggs for breakfast dropped more weight than those who consumed carbohydrate-loaded bagels.
Asparagus
Although not everyone’s favorite food, and certainly not the same as dark chocolate, asparagus has a lot to offer. Because low levels of folate are linked to depression in over half of all patients diagnosed, asparagus, which is loaded with folate, may be just they key to breaking free from the bonds of depression.
Asparagus also contains tryptophan which encourages the brain to make serotonin. Serotonin is the human brain’s main mood-stabilizing neurotransmitter. Asparagus is a perennial vegetable that is also high in vitamin B, vitamin C, iron and calcium.
Raw Honey
Although sweet, raw honey is loaded with nutritional value. Honey contains quercetin and kaempferol which helps to keep depression at bay and also reduces inflammation in the brain. Unlike high fructose corn syrup, or other refined sweeteners, raw honey does not cause the body to store fat and will have less of an impact on blood sugar.
Raw honey is not the same as what you may find in the supermarket. This honey is often heated and filtered which kills any yeast and enzymes that activate the vitamins. The best honey is raw local honey that is unfiltered.  As with chocolate, only a little honey is necessary.
Dark Chocolate
Organic dark chocolate, with at least 64% cacao, can lift a depressed mood by improving blood-flow to the brain. After consuming high-quality dark chocolate, you will find yourself in an almost instant good mood, and your focus and concentration will improve.
People who consume moderate amounts of dark chocolate on a regular basis are more energetic than those who do not eat it. A few ounces daily are all that is needed to reap the benefits from this delicious, naturally sweet treat.
Avocados
The thick creamy texture of an avocado is due to its high monounsaturated fat content. The healthy fat plus the potassium in this little green fruit help to lower blood pressure.
Monounsaturated fat keeps the receptors in the brain plugged into mood-enhancing serotonin, as well. Just half an avocado a day will make you feel level headed and energetic.
-The Alternative Daily
