Berries
Brightly colored and packed with antioxidants, a handful of juicy blueberries, strawberries or raspberries can help your mental health and improve cognitive function. In a study published in the Journal of Nutrition and Environmental Medicine, patients were treated with antioxidants or placebos. After two years those who were treated with antioxidants had a significantly lower depression score. Berries are super easy to prepare and a great on-the-go mood-boosting snack.
Turmeric
There are more than 300 compounds found in turmeric, but the one that has garnered the most attention is curcumin, which gives turmeric its golden glow. According to research, consuming curcumin can lessen anxiety and enhance moods. Turmeric is a highly versatile spice that works in dishes from rice, eggs, smoothies and more!
Green Tea
Not only is green tea rich in cancer-fighting antioxidants it is also a good source of the amino acid L-theanine, used to treat anxiety and depression. L-theanine, which balances the caffeine in green tea is associated with a decrease in mental and physical stress, improved cognition and boost in mood and cognitive performance.