Did you know that there are several foods that you can eat which will help to boost your happiness level?
No, I’m not talking about ice cream and chocolate bars (although they might help as well for a little while)… what I’m really talking about are foods that contain compounds which will naturally help you on your journey of becoming truly happy.
Unfortunately, the hard work of self development cannot be replaced by one magical food, BUT why not support our mind from within to “go the extra mile”?
Happy body- happy mind, right? 😉
Let’s start by telling you that this blog is the result of an amazing collaboration with Emily, a registered dietitian from Canada, who works with clients in-person and virtually to support women’s health, manage digestive issues, and practice sports nutrition without dieting or food restriction! (Follow Emily on Instagram to receive more great tips: @sayyestonourish) <3
We put together a list with hormones and molecules with a little explanation of their characteristics and will provide you with a super tasty recipe at the end.
Here are the compounds for your happiness boost:
Serotonin
Mediates satisfaction, happiness, and optimism- is reduced in depression. This is the confidence molecule!
Found in:
- Dried Spirulina
- Sunflower seeds
- Egg whites
Endocannabinoids
Self-produced cannabis works on the CB-1 and CB-2 receptors of the cannabinoid system in the brain. They’re also called the “natural high” compounds
Found in:
- Actually everywhere, it’s enhanced by the sensory aspects of food like flavor, smell, and appearance, so…
- Get creative with cooking and designing your food!
Dopamine
Released with reward-driven behaviour and pleasure-seeking, activated by setting goals and achieving them, and produces the motivation for food and food-seeking behaviour. This is the so-called “reward and pleasure” molecule.
Found in:
- Cottage cheese
- Avocado
- Chicken
Oxytocin
A hormone that is released by human bonding and increases trust and loyalty. It’s activated by skin to skin contact, intimacy, and affection, pets… It’s activated through a series of enzyme processes, the last of which is dependent on vitamin C. Therefore, vitamin C is essential for your happiness and well-being!
Found in:
- Citrus fruits
- Broccoli
- Bell peppers
Endorphins
These are self-produced morphines; they resemble opiates in chemical structure and have analgesic or pain-reducing properties (released naturally). They are produced by the pituitary gland and hypothalamus during strenuous activity, sexual intercourse and orgasm, and acupuncture/pain.
Stimulated by:
- Dark chocolate
- Spicy foods (like curry)
GABA
An inhibitory molecule that decreases firing of neurons and creates a sense of calmness, therefore also called the “calmness molecule” .
Found in:
- Fish
- Whole grains
- PLUS: Vitamin B helps our body to process it (found in papayas and chickpeas)
Adrenaline/Epinephrine
The “energy surge” compound activates the fight or flight response and is healthy in small doses. It can be activated by working outside of our comfort zone and taking risks. Along with dopamine, vitamin C and copper with additional enzymes are needed for the production.
Found in:
- Leafy greens
- Shiitake mushrooms
We saved the best for last… As promised, here is a super tasty and easy recipe for a dessert stuffed with happiness compounds 🙂
Vegan Chocolate Mousse (with a Kick!)
2 large avocados, peeled and chopped
1/3 cup maple syrup
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
Mix all ingredients in a blender/food processor until smooth (you may have to scrape the sides to fully blend). Pour into a container and refrigerate for 1 hour. Top with grated dark chocolate and ENJOY!
Tip: Before starting to eat, take one moment to thank yourself for taking the time to prepare this delicious dessert for you and think of all the benefits that it will have for your body. This way you can increase the positive effect of the ingredients and bring you more in tune with your body’s intuition.
Love,
Claudia
PS: In case you have any questions, you are more than welcome to message me at any time at info@thechoosinghappiness.com
Photo by Rayia Soderberg on Unsplash
