Happiness is – What You Eat

You can actually eat your way to a happier disposition. Certain foods can make us feel good by boosting our energy or putting us in a better mood. I know your thinking chocolate, chocolate ice cream, chocolate cake, chocolate brownies. Need I go on? But no, chocolate is not on the list though you should see our related postDark Chocolate Is Good For You.

Here are five foods that can help lift your mood:

Cereal: Deficiencies in folic acid can make you feel depressed. Breakfast cereals contain folic acid, which boosts levels of serotonin, which regulates mood in your brain. If your still stuck on the chocolate thing – eat Cocoa Puffs!

Walnuts: Foods high in fat can increase endorphins, which can make you happy. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in walnuts. They’re also found in flaxseed and salmon. Again chocolate lovers – dip walnuts in dark chocolate and label the container “For medicinal purposes.”

Beans and grains: Carbohydrate-rich food contribute to higher levels of serotonin, which can lead to increased feelings of pleasure. Whole grain bread, brown rice,, potatoes and pasta are carbohydrate rich.

Anxiety Cures

With the holidays sometimes comes anxiety and depression. Did you know that orange blossom is a very effective anti-depressant. Pamela Allerdyce author of Natural Remedies A to Z says “The gorgeous scent of these flowers (Citrus aurantium) is distilled into an essential oil which is one of the most effective antidepressants around. It has been documented as slowing down and calming the mind and it is very useful for people who tend to panic and for those who are prone to hyperventilation or are under a great deal of strain. It has even been used clinically to treat cardiac patients with great success.”

Add 4 to 6 drops to a warm bath to soothe and comfort the brain and the body.You can also just put a few drops on a hankerchief and inhale the scent or use an aromotherapy diffuser. I have found orange blossom essential oil in the health section of our local grocery store and it is not too expensive ( $4.00 to $5.00). Aromatherapists use orange blossom (neroli) oil to treat patients suffering from anxiety and insomnia because of its sedative properties. They also use it to treat broken veins and dry skin. It is particularly indicated for use in a facial steam or massage by people with dry, ageing or unduly fragile skin, particularly at the time of menopause.