7 Foods That Will Boost Your Mood, According to Science

By Samantha Leffler

Another reason to eat chocolate? Count us in.

There's plenty of evidence to suggest that activities like working out, spending some time outside during the day, and cuddling with a pet can lift your spirits, and as it turns out, what you eat can also have a big impact on your mood. Whether you've been afflicted with the winter blues or find yourself in a funk you just can't seem to get out of, the foods you put in your grocery cart and on your dinner plate can help. 

While no one food is a cure-all, and you should certainly consult a doctor if you think you're exhibiting symptoms of depression, there are several foods that have been scientifically proven to give people a happiness boost. Some of these foods, like Brazil nuts, contain compounds that stimulate the production of certain feel-good hormones, while other foods, such as coffee, can actually block compounds that may make you feel lousy.

As you may notice, many of the foods on this list are also considered superfoods and come with a myriad of health benefits that extend far beyond promoting a good mood. In other words, even if you don't need help ditching the winter blues, these multifunctional foods should be on your radar.