10 Super Foods to Boost Your Mood and Energy Level

What we eat and how we feel go hand in hand. There is scientific evidence that improving your diet can change your metabolism and brain chemistry, ultimately affecting your energy level and mood.
Foods can push your body to burn calories faster and more efficiently by supplying the calories which boost energy.

If you are aiming for a better mood, the best foods for you are those that help keep your blood sugar steady and trigger feel-good brain chemicals.

1. Smart Carbs
Carbs are vital for boosting energy and mood. They have been the foe of fad diets but they actually are the body’s preferred source of fuel. Of course it will depend on which carbohydrates, reach for complex carbs such as whole grains, since they raise levels of the feel-good chemical serotonin.
Try to avoid sweets that cause blood sugar to spike and plummet, making you feel tired and moody.

2. Cashews, Almonds, and Hazelnuts
Nuts are rich in protein and magnesium, minerals that play key roles in converting sugar into energy.

3. Salmon
Salmon and many other fatty fish are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which may protect against depression and be good for heart health.

4. Fiber
Fiber helps keep your energy steady throughout the day. Eat more beans, whole fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

5. Water
Staying hydrated can help you avoid getting tired, while dehydration can slow your metabolism and sap your energy.

6. Tea
Tea may improve alertness, reaction time, and memory. Having a cup of tea is a time-honored tradition, and may take the edge off your stress.

7. Dark Chocolate
A bit of dark chocolate can boost your energy and mood, thanks to the caffeine in chocolate, along with another stimulant called theobromine.

8. Breakfast
This is the most important meal of the day, and is key to more energy and better mood throughout the day.

9. Frequent Meals
Eat small meals and healthy snacks every three to four hours, rather than a few large meals, to keep your energy, mood, and blood sugar steady

10. Exercise for Energy
Even though food is extremely important, exercise is another tried-and-true way to boost energy and mood. Even a single 15-minute walk can be energizing, and if you’re more active, you’ll get more benefits.

Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/diet/ss/slideshow-energy-mood-boost-diet