We know how easy it is to reach out your hand and grab the nearest tub of ice cream, chocolate bar or deep-fried something when you’re feeling low. We’ve been there too, trust us – but, while comfort eating may seem like a good idea at the time, it usually ends in tears, excess weight around the middle and spots. Which will only make you more miserable, leading you to… well, you get the picture. It’s a vicious circle.
But naughty food doesn’t have to be the root of all evil. Not if you’re munching on these 5 mood boosters…
Chocolate
Dark chocolate, mind. A small square of high-quality dark chocolate can cause the brain to release endorphins and boost serotonin levels – and it’s proven to reduce anxiety levels.
Pasta
Oh sure, it’s a carb – but it’s a GOOD carb! Pasta helps lift your spirits by increasing the production of serotonin, the ultimate mood-booster. Plus there’s the fact it’s delicious…
Ice cream
As well as tasting pretty spectacular, vanilla ice cream gives you a large dose of phosphorous, which helps lift your libido.In turn, sex reduces stress and makes your body produce happy endorphins – not to mention burns off the excess ice cream calories. Win, win, right? Share a bowl with someone you fancy the pants off and let the frozen treat do its thing...
**Cheese **
Remember the old line “cheese gives you nightmares?” Totally incorrect. In fact, cheese contains tryptophan - a mood enhancer - and calcium, which helps to regulate sleep. Enjoy a small portion before bed and catch up on some smile-worthy Zzzs.
Wine
Yes, wine! Studies have suggested sociable drinking can improve your health; it’s linked to better emotional well-being and social adjustment. It also acts as a central nervous system depressant, relaxing you and lowering blood pressure – but try to stick to the red. And just one small glass…**
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