Dark Chocolate Health Benefits, Raw Oysters Are Healthy and 7 Healthy Foods to Eat
People eat for many different reasons aside from necessity, such as break-up eating, good-mood eating, movie-watching eating, I-am-so-bored eating, and the list goes on.
Here are seven great snacks that put you in a better mood and are healthful too!
1) Chocolate, but more importantly, Dark Chocolate
Got the cocoa fever? Good news! Small squares of dark chocolate cause your brain to release endorphins, leaving you with less stress and anxiety. If you’re not in the mood for solid bars, dark chocolate-covered dried fruits are great as well. Remember not to overeat, though, as you might end up feeling sluggish instead. A good size to stick with is half of 1.5 oz bar.
2) Yogurt
Fat-free yogurt is a great source of nutrition and vitamins that you need to start off your day right. Filled with vitamin D, yogurt will reduce not only your stress hormone levels, but also your chances of depression, heart disease, and cancer. Not into just plain yogurt? Good additions to plain yogurt are granola, fresh fruit, and preservatives.
3) Oysters
Oysters can be eaten almost any way you please, from being baked, boiled, grilled, fried, to even just served raw, and are packed with nutrition. Loaded with zinc, protein, and amino acids, oysters will easily improve your energy production and awareness throughout the day.
4) Spinach
Popeye was not lying when he said that spinach makes you stronger. These leafy greens, along with broccoli and broccoli rabe, are filled with essential vitamins B3, B6, and B12 and can improve your behavior if eaten regularly. If you’re leaning towards salad for lunch, ask if you can substitute the lettuce for raw spinach – it is a much healthier alternative.
5) Blackberries, Raspberries, Blueberries,and Cherries
A summer staple and healthful snack, dark berries such as blackberries, raspberries, blueberries, and cherries are not called “superfruits” for nothing. These berries are filled with antioxidants that fill you with positive energy to keep you going. A great alternative to an ice pop, berries will fill you with feel-good enzymes all day. Note: the darker the berry, the healthier they are.
6) Chicken and Turkey Breast
Both chicken and turkey breast have high levels of the amino acid “tryptophan,” which directly affect your mood, regulate your sleep patterns, and eliminate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Both versatile poultry, chicken and turkey can be used in sandwiches, soups, or can be served plain with corn and vegetables!
7) Water, of course!
It is essential to drink water every day in order to function properly and at your highest potential. Instead of grabbing a soda or sugary water, take a small water bottle with you each day to keep you energized and hydrated.
