Whether you're stressed, depressed or just plain irritable, sometimes you just want to eat your troubles away. That might not be such a good thing if you're reaching for bags of potato chips or a vat of butter-pecan ice cream.
Fortunately there are a variety of healthy eats that can help boost your spirits. Next time you're in a "mood," reach for one of these nine superfoods.
Chocolate
It's been long known that chocolate is a mood enhancer, especially when you're stressed or feeling a little blue. Just 1.4 ounces is enough to reduce anxiety and stress hormones. For added health benefits, try dark chocolate. It's been proven to help lower blood pressure and has more antioxidants than the lighter variety. But, as with all good things, moderation is key.More: 5 Ways Chocolate Boosts Your Workouts
Green Tea
Coffee may come to mind when you're low on energy. Instead, try green tea next time you're experiencing a dip. While too much coffee can leave you jittery, nervous and irritable, green tea is more mild and has less caffeine. It also improves your mood due to the presence of theanine, which eases mental and physical stress and helps improve cognation skills.Eggs
Eggs are protein-packed powerhouses. They're also a great source of choline, the key ingredient in the manufacturing of neurotransmitters. Without choline, brain cells cannot communicate with your body and that leaves it tired. Snack on a hard-boiled egg next time you feel sluggish.More: Breakfast Slow-Cooker Frittata Recipe
Salmon
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are the same fats that boost mood and memory. It's also been determined by scientists that the nutrients in salmon can fight Alzheimer's disease and other cognitive disorders. Aim for wild-caught salmon when possible.More: 5 Simple Fish Recipes
