6 “Mood Foods” For A Happier Autumn

Autumn is finally upon us. Bringing darker mornings and even darker evenings…

Which take their toll on your health and mood.

The sun begins to set early…

It’s always raining…

And with the lack of sunlight and vitamin D, you end up feeling tired, sleepy… 

Or simply “under-the-weather.”

We’ve all been there. 

But did you know your gut could hold the key to feeling happier this autumn?

In fact, recent studies reveal just how important gut health is to your emotional wellbeing and mental health.

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The Gut-Brain Axis 

Imagine your gut as your body’s capital city, full of trillions of tiny residents…

“Friendly bacteria,” which play a CRUCIAL role in your health.

Sending messages to your brain which control your emotions. Influencing your highs and lows…

Put simply, the right harmony of good and bad bacteria can help you thrive…

Reducing inflammation and enhancing immunity.

Leading to a balanced gut…a happier brain…and a healthier you.

In fact, this can reduce stress, anxiety and low mood.

But here’s the thing…

If you have too much bad bacteria…

It throws your hormones off balance, increasing stress and mood swings.

Yet all is not lost!

From taking a daily probiotic, to eating a varied diet full of the right foods for your digestive system…

It’s easy to maintain the perfect balance.

So here’s 6 unique “mood foods”…

Scientifically proven to boost mood and improve your brain health. Nourishing you from within. 

To help you keep your gut bacteria and your brain happy throughout the year…

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The 6 Best “Mood Foods” 

Oily Fish 

Packed with healthy omega-3 fats, oily fish is the perfect brain food. Try grilled salmon, mackerel or even sardines and anchovies. 

The omega-3 fatty acids are powerful antioxidants, shielding your nervous system, while also calming gut inflammation.

To help reduce bloating and discomfort…

What’s more, vitamins D and B12 can fight anxiety and low mood, so you can beat those autumn blues.

Turkey 

Turkey helps your body make serotonin, the “happy hormone”!

Which holds the key to emotional health, and – you guessed it – is produced in your gut.

In fact, a 2016 Melbourne University study revealed: 

It’s because turkey contains tryptophan…

Proven to kick-start your natural serotonin production.

Helping you sleep better at night, and feel more awake during the day.

It’s no accident we choose turkey for autumn and winter celebrations. 

Just think of those lavish Christmas dinners…

Lifting your spirits no matter how cold and gloomy the weather outside may be. 

Pumpkins & Winter Squash 

These autumn and winter staples are packed with magnesium, a so-called “miracle mineral,” crucial for brain health.

Relaxing the neurons in your brain, to help ease anxiety.

So, indulge in a thick, piping hot pumpkin soup, or a juicy roast squash.

You can also easily add these to smoothies and pasta sauces, for a quick, extra vitamin  boost. 

Dark Leafy Greens

Spinach, kale and chard…not just “nutritional powerhouses,” but mood-boosting champions.

Packed with magnesium, vitamins B and C…

Promoting relaxation in the nervous system and your muscles.

What’s more, high in fibre, leafy greens are crucial for your overall gut health…

Helping you balance blood sugar, plus stop mood swings and crashes. 

Fermented Foods 

A delight for your tastebuds, while also boosting your emotional wellbeing.

Yoghurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi are all PACKED with probiotics…

✅ Feeding beneficial gut bacteria

✅ Helping reduce inflammation

✅ Stopping bloating

To support and strengthen your mental health. 

So, next time you savour a tangy spoonful of yoghurt or the crunch of kimchi…

Remember you’re not only nourishing your gut…

 But also a happier, more balanced mind. 

Dark Chocolate

A “gut-friendly” treat for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Now, everyone knows chocolate can improve your mood, but there’s actual science behind it.

Dark chocolate in particular is rich in polyphenols, crucial compounds for whole body wellness…

Supporting a healthy blood pressure, reducing inflammation and even boosting your focus and memory!

Dark chocolate acts as a unique prebiotic, nourishing the good bacteria in your gut.

oosting serotonin…

Releasing endorphins… 

And giving you that “runner’s high” feeling!

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Balanced Gut For A Balanced Mind 

As the seasons change and the days become shorter, it’s vital to prioritise your mental and emotional well-being…

By nourishing your body with the right foods.

To support your brain, reduce stress and boost your serotonin levels.

And for the days when you’re too tired or just not in the mood to cook…remember simple is best! 

A quick salad, an omelette packed with greens or a simple smoothie are easy alternatives for those blue days…

So, let your journey towards a healthier gut and brighter self begin with your next meal. 

What will you try first? 

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Sources:

https://www.katebrienrd.com/mood-boosting-foods/
https://www.culinarynutrition.com/mood-boosting-foods/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4794959/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4822287/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0889855316300826
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4604320/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5078156/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0889159115000884
https://www.everydayhealth.com/depression/fall-and-winter-foods-with-mood-boosting-benefits/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24447198/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18950248/
https://www.forbes.com/health/body/psychobiotics/