When we were in active addiction, we relied on drugs and alcohol to control our moods. Upon entering into a life of sobriety, however, we find that there have been natural ways to lift our mood all along. The food we eat has a direct effect on how we feel, and we can improve our overall sense of well-being and happiness just by changing what we choose to eat. Here are four mood-lifting foods you can incorporate into your diet:
Salmon (and other fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids)
Salmon is a great source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Researchers have found that Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids may play a role in the prevention of mood and anxiety disorders. According to the National Institute of Health, “it has been observed that countries with a high consumption of fish diet appear to have a lower prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorders (BD).” Omega-3 fatty acids are important for energy, cognitive performance, heart health, and circulation. Try eating fish twice a week to reap the mood-boosting benefits of omega-3.
Coconut
Coconuts are a wonderful source of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Coconuts can provide a quick energy boost, aid in athletic performance, and improve digestion. Even the smell of coconuts can lift your mood. According to EatingWell, “the scent of coconut may blunt your natural ‘fight or flight’ response, slowing your heart rate. People who breathed in coconut fragrance in a small pilot study at Columbia University saw their blood pressure recover more quickly after a challenging task. The researchers speculate that inhaling a pleasant scent enhances alertness while soothing our response to stress.”
Blueberries
Blueberries provide essential nutrients that can help heal and protect the brain and nervous system, improving memory and focus. According to a 2017 Washington Post article by Cara Rosenbloom, “With a high content of antioxidants known as flavonoids, blueberries help activate brain pathways associated with better cognition and less cellular aging. Blueberries and blueberry juice are associated with having a more positive mood.”
Tea
Tea has been used medicinally for ages, and for good reason. Caffeinated black, green, or oolong tea can improve alertness, attention, and focus. Caffeine can be helpful in small doses, but overdoing it can make you feel jittery and uncomfortable. Fortunately, there are many caffeine-free herbal tea options that can improve your mood. Herbal tea is a wonderful option because many varieties, such as ginger tea, are loaded with antioxidants and nutrients that can help improve your energy level without the dreaded caffeine crash caused by coffee and other caffeinated beverages.
Your story can be one of health, happiness, and joy in sobriety. You can make the decision to seek help today and begin the rewarding journey of recovery. Oceanfront Recovery, a treatment facility in beautiful Laguna Beach, offers cutting-edge treatment techniques, including Nutritionist Therapy, as part of the Residential Treatment program. For more information about individualized treatment options, please call today: (877) 279-1777
