A brain expert gives a list of endorphin foods linked to boosting mood.
Plus see recipes to try that put them to delicious use.
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neuroscientist, mental health expert, and host ofCleaning Up The Mental Mess
(And hey, feel free to combine all three.)
Can you seriously eat your way to an endorphin boost?
Not only are there other neurotransmitters and hormones that play a role, but life circumstances matter too.
If youre going through a hard time, snacking on an endorphin-boosting food wont magically take your troubles away.
But that doesnt mean they cant help.
They certainly can and here, Dr.
Leaf explains exactly how.
Keep reading to see a list of foods scientifically linked to releasing endorphins.
Consider it your go-to snack list for days when you need a mood boost.
neuroscientist, mental health expert, and host ofCleaning Up The Mental Mess
4 endorphin foods to eat when you need a mood boost
1.
Dark chocolate
Chocolate lovers will already tell you that this food will boost your mood, andscience confirms it.
Some research suggests that chocolate interacts with endorphins.
Citrus fruits
Not a chocolate person?
Next time youre in need of a mood boost, snack on a juicy orange.
Even just the smell of citrus has been linked to a mood boost.
Studies suggest this component supports the part of the nervous system thats responsible for relaxation.
In other words, it can decrease stress.
Besides this, eating citrus also increases endorphin levels, which Dr.
Leaf says is due to their vitamin C content.
This is specifically because they contain capsaicin, the compound that makes them hot.
Leaf says its important to double-check your nutrient bases are covered overall.
Just something else to keep in mind when using food to support your mood.
Okay, so now you know which foods are scientifically linked to boosting endorphins.
Need some recipe ideas for how to enjoy em?
4 endorphin-boosting recipes that will put you in a good mood
1.
Chocolate reishi muffins
These muffins are made with a trifecta of mood-boosting ingredients.
First is dark chocolate, which you now know is an endorphin food.
This tangy chutney is perfect for dressing up meat and seafood dishes and is full of anti-inflammatory ingredients.
Get the recipe:vegan stuffed peppers
4.
Homemade chili sauce
Use chili peppers to make your own homemade hot sauce with this super simple recipe.
Wait until you tell your runner friends that you dont have to get all sweaty to experience a high.
Just be ready with the snacks!
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