In our impression, eating every day is just to sustain life and keep ourselves going. In fact, eating is not just about replenishing energy and sustaining life. It is actually a wonderful thing. According to research, some foods not only taste good but also have the function of making people happy.
Banana
Bananas contain a substance called alkaloids, which can boost spirits and increase confidence. Moreover, bananas are a super source of tryptophan and vitamin B6, which help the brain produce serotonin and reduce depression.
Deep-water fish
Research shows that people living by the sea are generally happier. This is not only because the sea is refreshing, but mainly because they fish as a staple food. A Harvard University research report points out that the Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil have similar effects to common antidepressants such as lithium carbonate.
Grapefruit
Grapefruit not only has a rich aroma but can also purify complicated thoughts and refresh the mind. The high amount of vitamin C in grapefruit can not only boost the body's resistance but also help with stress relief. Most importantly, vitamin C is an important component in the production of dopamine and norepinephrine.
Spinach
In addition to containing a large amount of iron, spinach also contains folic acid, which the human body needs. Medical literature consistently points out that a deficiency in folic acid can lead to mental illnesses, including depression and early-onset dementia. Studies have also found that people with a folic acid deficiency for more than 5 months will experience insomnia, as well as symptoms such as forgetfulness and anxiety.
Garlic
A German study on the effects of garlic on cholesterol found, based on patient questionnaires, that after taking garlic pills, they felt less tired, less anxious, and less irritable.
Pumpkin
Pumpkins can create a good mood because they are rich in vitamin B6 and iron, both of which help the body convert stored blood sugar into glucose, which is the brain's only "happy fuel".
Low-fat milk
The Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York found that after women with premenstrual syndrome took 1000 milligrams of calcium tablets for three months, three-quarters of them experienced relief from tension, irritability, or anxiety to varying degrees.
Whole wheat bread
Dr. Judith Wurtman of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology stated that eating complex carbohydrates like whole wheat bread and soda crackers, the trace minerals they contain such as selenium can improve mood, acting like an antidepressant.
Chicken
After British psychologists Benton and Cook gave subjects 100 micrograms of selenium, the subjects generally reported feeling much better and having more coordinated thoughts. Rich sources of selenium include chicken, seafood, and whole grain foods.