With the holidays here, it’s easy to feel stressed, overwhelmed, frustrated, sad or any range of emotions. This is especially true when we’re eating a seasonal diet full of sugar. From Christmas cookies to refined carbohydrates, the holidays bring indulgence to the table. Of course, celebrating is wonderful. But if you can add more “good mood food” to your diet, you can enjoy the festivities and stay happy and healthy in the process.
Food has healing and energetic properties. It can also leave you feeling depleted and cranky. Choosing the right foods can help you maintain balance in your mind and body—even when holiday stress hits. When planning your meals, incorporate my favorite mood-boosting foods to make this month even more joyful…
Good Mood Food (Ideas and Recipes!)
Leafy Greens: Greens, like kale, Swiss chard and spinach, contain chlorophyll. Chlorophyll helps plants capture light and energy from the sun. When we eat dark leafy greens, we can assimilate this natural, vibrant energy. Eat a variety of greens daily to lift your spirits. I recommend braising greens in the winter or adding a handful or two to your morning smoothies.
Wild Salmon: According to Dr. Axe, “a low intake of omega-3 fats is associated with greater rates of depressed mood.” He goes on to suggest we should, “Aim for at least 2 servings of wild-caught fish per week and take a daily omega-3 supplement to get the most mood boosting benefit.” Try roasted salmon filets with lots of lemon and fresh herbs for an easy, elegant meal.
Apples: Did you know a crispy apple gives you more of a pick-me-up than a cup of coffee? Plus, the fiber in an apple offers a sustainable source of energy, whereas a straight shot of caffeine will provide a high followed by a crash. Opt for an apple when you need a little holiday pep. Find delicious recipes here.
Chocolate: You didn’t see this one coming, did you? We all love chocolate, and high-quality dark chocolate is known for giving our brains a boost of serotonin and endorphins. Just remember, most chocolate products contain an unhealthy dose of sugar. Look for organic 85% dark chocolate bars (without fillers and chemicals) and enjoy in moderation.
Do you know what else makes people feel good around the holidays? Gifts!
1. Receive a FREE bottle of wine when you book your holiday catering with Secret Ingredient. Serving intimate dinners and parties (up to 50-60 people), we can cook your meals and serve your guests with a free bottle of wine to boot! Click here to learn more and see sample menus.
2. Download our handy Holiday Wine & Food Pairing Guide. Visit our homepage and enter your name and email address into the pop-up offer. We’ll send your complimentary gift directly to your inbox. (Make sure your pop-up blockers are disabled if you don’t see the offer.)
