<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title>Food for Mood &#8211; Safe Pod at Queenstown</title>
	<atom:link href="https://www.safepod.sg/category/food-for-mood/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>https://www.safepod.sg</link>
	<description>A Wellness Gym</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Tue, 07 Dec 2021 07:54:04 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en-US</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>
	hourly	</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>
	1	</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.4.3</generator>

<image>
	<url>https://www.safepod.sg/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Picture1-90x90.jpg</url>
	<title>Food for Mood &#8211; Safe Pod at Queenstown</title>
	<link>https://www.safepod.sg</link>
	<width>32</width>
	<height>32</height>
</image> 
	<item>
		<title>11 Best Foods to Boost Your Brain and Memory</title>
		<link>https://www.safepod.sg/11-best-foods-to-boost-your-brain-and-memory/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Safepod Admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Wed, 10 Nov 2021 10:01:30 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Food for Mood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Adult]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Youth]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">https://staging.aidencreative.org/sp/?p=848</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Your brain is kind of a big deal. As the control center of your body, it’s in charge of keeping your heart beating and lungs breathing and allowing you to move, feel, and think. That’s why it’s a good idea to keep your brain in peak working condition. The foods you eat play a role [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p id="TOC_TITLE_HDR_1">Your brain is kind of a big deal.</p>



<p>As the control center of your body, it’s in charge of keeping your heart beating and lungs breathing and allowing you to move, feel, and think.</p>



<p>That’s why it’s a good idea to keep your brain in peak working condition.</p>



<p>The foods you eat play a role in keeping your brain healthy and can improve specific mental tasks, such as memory and concentration.</p>



<p>This article lists 11 foods that boost your brain.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. Fatty fish</h2>



<p>When people talk about brain foods, fatty fish is often at the top of the list.</p>



<p>This type of fish includes salmon, trout, albacore tuna, herring, and sardines, all of which are rich sources of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/17-health-benefits-of-omega-3">omega-3 fatty acids</a>.</p>



<p>About 60% of your brain is made of fat, and half of that fat is comprised of omega-3 fatty acids.</p>



<p>Your brain uses omega-3s to build brain and nerve cells, and these fats are essential for learning and memory.</p>



<p>Omega-3s also offer several additional benefits for your brain.</p>



<p>For one thing, they may slow age-related mental decline and help ward off Alzheimer’s disease.</p>



<p>On the flip side, not getting enough omega-3s is linked to learning impairments, as well as depression.</p>



<p>In general, eating fish seems to have positive&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-health-benefits-of-fish">health benefits</a>.</p>



<p>Some research also suggests that people who eat fish regularly tend to have more gray matter in their brains. Gray matter contains most of the nerve cells that control decision making, memory, and emotion.</p>



<p>Overall, fatty fish is an excellent choice for brain health.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Fatty fish is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, a major building block of the brain. Omega-3s play a role in sharpening memory and improving mood, as well as protecting your brain against cognitive decline.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Coffee</h2>



<p>If&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-13-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-coffee">coffee</a>&nbsp;is the highlight of your morning, you’ll be glad to hear that it’s good for you.</p>



<p>Two main components in coffee — caffeine and antioxidants — can help support brain health.</p>



<p>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-is-caffeine">caffeine</a>&nbsp;found in coffee has a number of positive effects on the brain, including:</p>



<ul><li><strong>Increased alertness.</strong>&nbsp;Caffeine keeps your brain alert by blocking adenosine, a chemical messenger that makes you feel sleepy.</li><li><strong>Improved mood</strong>. Caffeine may also boost some of your “feel-good” neurotransmitters, such as dopamine.</li><li><strong>Sharpened concentration</strong>. One study found that caffeine consumption led to short-term improvements in attention and alertness in participants completing a cognition test.</li></ul>



<p>Drinking coffee over the long-term is also linked to a reduced risk of neurological diseases, such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. The largest risk reduction was seen in those adults who consumes 3-4 cups daily.</p>



<p>This could at least be partly due to coffee’s high concentration of antioxidants.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Coffee can help boost alertness and mood. It may also offer some protection against Alzheimer’s, thanks to its content of caffeine and antioxidants.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. Blueberries</h2>



<p>Blueberries provide&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-blueberries">numerous health benefits</a>, including some that are specifically for your brain.</p>



<p>Blueberries and other deeply colored berries deliver anthocyanins, a group of plant compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.</p>



<p>Antioxidants act against both oxidative stress and inflammation, conditions that can contribute to brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases.</p>



<p>Some of the antioxidants in blueberries have been found to accumulate in the brain and help improve communication between brain cells.</p>



<p>According to one review of 11 studies, blueberries could help improve memory and certain cognitive processes in children and older adults.</p>



<p>Try sprinkling them over your breakfast cereal, adding them to a smoothie, or enjoying as is for a simple snack.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Blueberries are packed with antioxidants that may delay brain aging and improve memory.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. Turmeric</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-turmeric">Turmeric</a>&nbsp;has generated a lot of buzz recently.</p>



<p>This deep-yellow spice is a key ingredient in curry powder and has a number of benefits for the brain.</p>



<p>Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier, meaning it can directly enter the brain and benefit the cells there.</p>



<p>It’s a potent&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/antioxidants-explained">antioxidant</a>&nbsp;and anti-inflammatory compound that has been linked to the following brain benefits:</p>



<ul><li><strong>May benefit memory.</strong>&nbsp;Curcumin may help improve memory in people with Alzheimer’s. It may also help clear the amyloid plaques that are a hallmark of this disease.</li><li><strong>Eases depression.</strong>&nbsp;Curcumin boosts serotonin and dopamine, both of which improve mood. One review found that curcumin could improve symptoms of depression and anxiety when used alongside standard treatments in people diagnosed with depression.</li><li><strong>Helps new brain cells grow.</strong>&nbsp;Curcumin boosts brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a type of growth hormone that helps brain cells grow. It may help delay age-related mental decline, but more research is needed.</li></ul>



<p>Keep in mind that most studies use highly concentrated curcumin supplements in doses ranging from 500–2,000 mg per day, which is much more curcumin than most people typically consume when using turmeric as a spice. This is because turmeric is only made up of around 3–6% curcumin.</p>



<p>Therefore, while adding turmeric to your food may be beneficial, you may need to use a curcumin supplement under a doctor’s guidance to obtain the results reported in these studies.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Turmeric and its active compound curcumin have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, which help the brain. In research, it has reduced symptoms of depression and Alzheimer’s disease.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. Broccoli</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/broccoli">Broccoli</a>&nbsp;is packed with powerful plant compounds, including antioxidants.</p>



<p>It’s also very high in vitamin K, delivering more than 100% of the Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) in a 1-cup (160-gram) serving of cooked broccoli.</p>



<p>This fat-soluble vitamin is essential for forming sphingolipids, a type of fat that’s densely packed into brain cells.</p>



<p>A few studies in older adults have linked a higher vitamin K intake to better memory and cognitive status.</p>



<p>Beyond vitamin K, broccoli contains a number of compounds that give it anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help protect the brain against damage.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Broccoli contains a number of compounds that have powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, including vitamin K.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">6. Pumpkin seeds</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-benefits-of-pumpkin-seeds">Pumpkin seeds</a>&nbsp;contain powerful antioxidants that protect the body and brain from free-radical damage.</p>



<p>They’re also an excellent source of magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper.</p>



<p>Each of these nutrients is important for brain health:</p>



<ul><li><strong>Zinc.</strong>&nbsp;This element is crucial for nerve signaling. Zinc deficiency has been linked to many neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and Parkinson’s disease.</li><li><strong>Magnesium.</strong>&nbsp;Magnesium is essential for learning and memory. Low magnesium levels are linked to many neurological diseases, including migraine, depression, and epilepsy.</li><li><strong>Copper.</strong>&nbsp;Your brain uses copper to help control nerve signals. And when copper levels are out of whack, there’s a higher risk of neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s.</li><li><strong>Iron.</strong>&nbsp;Iron deficiency is often characterized by brain fog and impaired brain function.</li></ul>



<p>The research focuses mostly on these micronutrients, rather than pumpkin seeds themselves. However, since pumpkin seeds are high in these micronutrients, you can likely reap their benefits by adding pumpkin seeds to your diet.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Pumpkin seeds are rich in many micronutrients that are important for brain function, including copper, iron, magnesium, and zinc.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">7. Dark chocolate</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-health-benefits-dark-chocolate">Dark chocolate</a>&nbsp;and cocoa powder are packed with a few brain-boosting compounds, including flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants.</p>



<p>Dark chocolate has a 70% or greater cocoa content. These benefits are not seen with regular milk chocolate, which contains between 10–50% cocoa.</p>



<p>Flavonoids are a group of antioxidant plant compounds.</p>



<p>The flavonoids in chocolate gather in the areas of the brain that deal with learning and memory. Researchers believe that these compounds may enhance memory and also help slow down age-related mental decline.</p>



<p>In fact, a number of studies back this up.</p>



<p>According to one study in over 900 people, those who ate chocolate more frequently performed better in a series of mental tasks, including some involving memory, compared with those who rarely ate it.</p>



<p>Chocolate is also a legitimate mood booster, according to research.</p>



<p>One study found that participants who ate chocolate experienced increased positive feelings compared to those who ate crackers.</p>



<p>However, it’s still not clear whether that’s because of compounds in the chocolate or simply because the tasty flavor makes people happy.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>The flavonoids in chocolate may help protect the brain. Studies have suggested that eating chocolate, especially dark chocolate, could boost both memory and mood.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">8. Nuts</h2>



<p>Research has shown that eating&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/9-healthy-nuts">nuts</a>&nbsp;can improve heart-health markers, and having a healthy heart is linked to having a healthy brain.</p>



<p>One study found that regular consumption of nuts could be linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline in older adults.</p>



<p>Also, another 2014 study found that women who ate nuts regularly over the course of several years had a sharper memory compared with those who did not eat nuts.</p>



<p>Several nutrients in nuts, such as healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamin E, may explain their beneficial effects on brain health.</p>



<p>Vitamin E protects cells against free-radical damage to help slow mental decline.</p>



<p>While all nuts are good for your brain,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/walnuts">walnuts</a>&nbsp;may have an extra edge, since they also deliver anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Nuts contain a host of brain-boosting nutrients, including vitamin E, healthy fats, and plant compounds.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">9. Oranges</h2>



<p>You can get almost all the vitamin C you need in a day by eating one medium&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/foods/oranges">orange</a>.</p>



<p>Doing so is important for brain health since vitamin C is a key factor in preventing mental decline.</p>



<p>According to one study, having higher levels of vitamin C in the blood was associated with improvements in tasks involving focus, memory, attention, and decision speed.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/does-vitamin-c-help-with-colds">Vitamin C</a>&nbsp;is a powerful antioxidant that helps fight off the free radicals that can damage brain cells. Plus, vitamin C supports brain health as you age and may protect against conditions like major depressive disorder, anxiety, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer’s disease.</p>



<p>You can also get high amounts of vitamin C from other foods like bell peppers, guava, kiwi, tomatoes, and strawberries.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Oranges and other foods that are high in vitamin C can help defend your brain against damage from free radicals.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">10. Eggs</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-health-benefits-of-eggs">Eggs</a>&nbsp;are a good source of several nutrients tied to brain health, including vitamins B6 and B12, folate, and choline.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-is-choline">Choline</a>&nbsp;is an important micronutrient that your body uses to create acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and memory.</p>



<p>Two older studies found that higher intakes of choline were linked to better memory and mental function.</p>



<p>Nevertheless, many people do not get enough choline in their diet.</p>



<p>Eating eggs is an easy way to get choline, given that egg yolks are among the most concentrated sources of this nutrient.</p>



<p>Adequate intake of choline is 425 mg per day for most women and 550 mg per day for men, with just a single egg yolk containing 112 mg.</p>



<p>Furthermore, the B vitamins found in eggs also have several roles in brain health.</p>



<p>To start, they may help slow the progression of mental decline in older adults by lowering levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that could be linked to dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.</p>



<p>Also, being deficient in two types of B vitamins — folate and B12 — has been linked to depression.</p>



<p>Folate deficiency is common in older people with dementia, and studies show that folic acid supplements can help minimize age-related mental decline.</p>



<p>Vitamin B12 is also involved in synthesizing brain chemicals and regulating sugar levels in the brain.</p>



<p>It’s worth noting that there’s very little direct research on the link between eating eggs and brain health. However, there is research to support the brain-boosting benefits of the specific nutrients found in eggs.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Eggs are a rich source of several B vitamins and choline, which are important for regulating mood and promoting proper brain function and development.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">11. Green tea</h2>



<p>As is the case with coffee, the caffeine in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-green-tea">green tea</a>&nbsp;boosts brain function.</p>



<p>In fact, it has been found to improve alertness, performance, memory, and focus.</p>



<p>But green tea also has other components that make it a brain-healthy beverage.</p>



<p>One of them is L-theanine, an amino acid that can cross the blood-brain barrier and increase the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps reduce anxiety and makes you feel more relaxed.</p>



<p>L-theanine also increases the frequency of alpha waves in the brain, which helps you relax without making you feel tired.</p>



<p>One review found that the L-theanine in green tea can help you relax by counteracting the stimulating effects of caffeine.</p>



<p>It’s also rich in polyphenols and antioxidants that could protect the brain from mental decline and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.</p>



<p>Plus, some studies have shown green tea helps improve memory.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Green tea is an excellent beverage to support your brain. Its caffeine content boosts alertness, its antioxidants protect the brain, and L-theanine helps you relax.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The bottom line</h2>



<p>Many foods can help keep your brain healthy.</p>



<p>Some foods, such as the fruits and vegetables in this list, as well as tea and coffee, have antioxidants that help protect your brain from damage.</p>



<p>Others, such as nuts and eggs, contain nutrients that support memory and brain development.</p>



<p>You can help support your brain health and boost your alertness, memory, and mood by strategically including these foods in your diet.</p>



<p>Just one thing. Try this today: Just as important as including these brain-boosting foods in your diet is steering clear of foods that can negatively impact brain health. Check out&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/worst-foods-for-your-brain">this article</a>&nbsp;for a list of the 7 worst foods for your brain that you should limit or avoid.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Source</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-brain-foods">https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-brain-foods</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>Healthy Foods That Lift Your Mood</title>
		<link>https://www.safepod.sg/9-healthy-foods-that-lift-your-mood/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Safepod Admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Nov 2020 05:09:20 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Food for Mood]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Featured]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://aqum.themezinho.net/?p=51</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[When you’re feeling down, it can be tempting to turn to food to lift your spirits. However, the sugary, high calorie treats that many people resort to have negative consequences of their own. Thus, you may wonder whether any healthy foods can improve your mood. Recently, research on the relationship between nutrition and mental health [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<p>When you’re feeling down, it can be tempting to turn to food to lift your spirits. However, the sugary, high calorie treats that many people resort to have negative consequences of their own.</p>



<p>Thus, you may wonder whether any healthy foods can improve your mood.</p>



<p>Recently, research on the relationship between nutrition and mental health has been emerging. Yet, it’s important to note that mood can be influenced by many factors, such as stress, environment, poor sleep, genetics, mood disorders, and nutritional deficiencies.</p>



<p>Therefore, it’s difficult to accurately determine whether food can raise your spirits.</p>



<p>Nonetheless, certain foods have been shown to improve overall brain health and certain types of mood disorders.</p>



<p>Here are 9 healthy foods that may boost your mood.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. Fatty fish</h2>



<p>Omega-3 fatty acids are a group of essential fats that you must obtain through your diet because your body can’t produce them on its own.</p>



<p>Fatty fish like salmon and albacore tuna are rich in two types of omega-3s — docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) — that are linked to lower levels of depression.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/17-health-benefits-of-omega-3">Omega-3s</a>&nbsp;contribute to the fluidity of your brain’s cell membrane and appear to play key roles in brain development and cell signaling.</p>



<p>While research is mixed, one review of clinical trials showed that in some studies, consuming omega-3’s in the form of fish oil lower depression scores.</p>



<p>Although there’s no standard dose, most experts agree that most adults should get at least 250–500 mg of combined EPA and DHA&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-much-omega-3">per day</a>.</p>



<p>Given that a 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-benefits-of-salmon">salmon</a>&nbsp;provides 2,260 mg of EPA and DHA, eating this fish a few times per week is a great way to get these fats into your diet.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Fatty fish like salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may lower your risk of depression.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Dark chocolate</h2>



<p>Chocolate is rich in many mood-boosting compounds.</p>



<p>Its sugar may improve mood since it’s a quick source of fuel for your brain.</p>



<p>Furthermore, it may release a cascade of feel-good compounds, such as caffeine, theobromine, and N-acylethanolamine — a substance chemically similar to cannabinoids that has been linked to improved mood.</p>



<p>However, some experts debate whether chocolate contains enough of these compounds to trigger a psychological response.</p>



<p>Regardless, it’s high in health-promoting flavonoids, which have been shown to increase blood flow to your brain, reduce inflammation, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-brain-foods">boost brain health</a>, all of which may support mood regulation.</p>



<p>Finally, chocolate has a high hedonic rating, meaning that its pleasurable taste, texture, and smell may also promote good mood.</p>



<p>Because milk chocolate contains added ingredients like sugar and fat, it’s best to opt for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-health-benefits-dark-chocolate">dark chocolate</a>&nbsp;— which is higher in flavonoids and lower in added sugar. You should still stick to 1–2 small squares (of 70% or more cocoa solids) at a time since it’s a high-calorie food.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Dark chocolate is rich in compounds that may increase feel-good chemicals in your brain.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. Fermented foods</h2>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-fermented-foods">Fermented foods</a>, which include kimchi, yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and sauerkraut, may improve gut health and mood.</p>



<p>The fermentation process allows live bacteria to thrive in foods that are then able to convert sugars into alcohol and acids.</p>



<p>During this process,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-super-healthy-probiotic-foods">probiotics</a>&nbsp;are created. These live microorganisms support the growth of healthy bacteria in your gut and may increase serotonin levels.</p>



<p>It’s important to note that not all fermented foods are significant sources of probiotics, such as in the case of beer, some breads, and wine, due to cooking and filtering.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/mental-health/serotonin">Serotonin</a>&nbsp;is a neurotransmitter that affects many facets of human behavior, such as mood, stress response, appetite, and sexual drive. Up to 90% of your body’s serotonin is produced by your gut microbiome, or the collection of healthy bacteria in your gut.</p>



<p>In addition, the gut microbiome plays a role in brain health. Research is beginning to show a connection between healthy gut bacteria and lower rates of depression.</p>



<p>Still, more research is needed to understand how probiotics may regulate mood.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Since up to 90% of your body’s serotonin is produced in your gut, a healthy gut may correspond to a good mood. Fermented foods like kimchi, yogurt, kefir, kombucha, and sauerkraut are rich in probiotics that support gut health.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. Bananas</h2>



<p>Bananas may help turn a frown upside down.</p>



<p>They’re high in vitamin B6, which helps synthesize feel-good neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin.</p>



<p>Furthermore, one large&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-benefits-of-bananas">banana</a>&nbsp;(136 grams) provides 16 grams of sugar and 3.5 grams of fiber.</p>



<p>When paired with fiber, sugar is released slowly into your bloodstream, allowing for stable blood sugar levels and better mood control. Blood sugar levels that are too low may lead to irritability and mood swings.</p>



<p>Finally, this ubiquitous tropical fruit, especially when still showing green on the peel, is an excellent source of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/19-best-prebiotic-foods">prebiotics</a>, a type of fiber that helps feed healthy bacteria in your gut. A robust gut microbiome is associated with lower rates of mood disorders.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Bananas are a great source of natural sugar, vitamin B6, and prebiotic fiber, which work together to keep your blood sugar levels and mood stable.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. Oats</h2>



<p>Oats are a whole grain that can keep you in good spirits all morning. You can enjoy them in many forms, such as&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/overnight-oats-recipes">overnight oats</a>, oatmeal, muesli, and granola.</p>



<p>They’re an excellent source of fiber, providing 8 grams in a single raw cup (81 grams).</p>



<p>Fiber helps slow your digestion of carbs, allowing for a gradual release of sugar into the bloodstream to keep your energy levels stable.</p>



<p>In one study, those who ate 1.5–6 grams of fiber at breakfast reported better mood and energy levels. This was attributed to more stable blood sugar levels, which is important for controlling mood swings and irritability.</p>



<p>Although other sources of whole grains can have this effect, oats may be especially advantageous, as they’re also a great source of iron, with 1 raw cup (81 grams) boasting 19% of your daily needs.</p>



<p>Iron deficiency anemia, one of the most common&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-common-nutrient-deficiencies">nutrient deficiencies</a>, is associated with low iron intake. Its symptoms include fatigue, sluggishness, and mood disorders.</p>



<p>Some research suggests that people experience improvements in these symptoms after eating iron-rich foods or supplementing with iron, but more research is needed.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Oats provide fiber that can stabilize your blood sugar levels and boost your mood. They’re also high in iron, which may improve mood symptoms in those with iron deficiency anemia.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">6. Berries</h2>



<p>Curiously, eating more fruits and vegetables is linked to lower rates of depression.</p>



<p>Although the mechanism isn’t clear, a diet rich in antioxidants may help manage inflammation associated with depression and other mood disorders.</p>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-healthy-berries">Berries</a>&nbsp;pack a wide range of antioxidants and phenolic compounds, which play a key role in combatting oxidative stress — an imbalance of harmful compounds in your body.</p>



<p>They’re particularly high in anthocyanins, a pigment that gives certain berries their&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/blue-fruits">purple-blue color</a>. One study associated a diet rich in anthocyanins with a 39% lower risk of depression symptoms.</p>



<p>If you can’t find them fresh, try buying frozen berries — which are frozen at their peak ripeness to retain the maximum amount of antioxidants.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Berries are rich in disease-fighting anthocyanins, which may lower your risk of depression.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">7. Nuts and seeds</h2>



<p>Nuts and seeds are high in plant-based proteins, healthy fats, and fiber.</p>



<p>Additionally, they provide tryptophan, an amino acid responsible for producing mood-boosting serotonin. Almonds, cashews, peanuts, and walnuts, as well as pumpkin, sesame, and sunflower seeds, are excellent sources.</p>



<p>Moreover, nuts and seeds are a large component of both the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mind-diet">MIND</a>&nbsp;and Mediterranean diets, which may support a healthy brain. Each of these diets promotes fresh, whole foods and limits your intake of processed items.</p>



<p>What’s more, a 10-year study in 15,980 people linked moderate nut intake to a 23% lower risk of depression.</p>



<p>Finally, certain nuts and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/6-healthiest-seeds">seeds</a>, such as Brazil nuts, almonds, and pine nuts, are good sources of zinc and selenium. Deficiency in these minerals, which are important for brain function, is associated with higher rates of depression — although more research is needed.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Certain nuts and seeds are high in tryptophan, zinc, and selenium, which may support brain function and lower your risk of depression.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">8. Coffee</h2>



<p>Coffee is the world’s most popular drink, and it may make the world a bit happier, too.</p>



<p>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/how-much-caffeine-in-coffee">caffeine in coffee</a>&nbsp;prevents a naturally occurring compound called adenosine from attaching to brain receptors that promote tiredness, therefore increasing alertness and attention.</p>



<p>Moreover, it increases the release of mood-boosting neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine.</p>



<p>A study in 72 people found that both caffeinated and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/decaf-coffee-good-or-bad">decaffeinated coffee</a>&nbsp;significantly improved mood compared with a placebo beverage, suggesting that coffee contains other compounds that influence mood.</p>



<p>Researchers attributed this boost in attitude to various phenolic compounds, such as chlorogenic acid. Still, more research is needed.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Coffee provides numerous compounds, including caffeine and chlorogenic acid, that may boost your mood. Research suggests that decaf coffee may even have an effect.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">9. Beans and lentils</h2>



<p>In addition to being high in fiber and plant-based protein,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/healthiest-beans-legumes">beans and lentils</a>&nbsp;are full of feel-good nutrients.</p>



<p>They’re an excellent source of B vitamins, which help improve mood by increasing levels of neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, and gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA), all of which are important for regulating mood.</p>



<p>Furthermore,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-b-complex">B vitamins</a>&nbsp;play a key role in nerve signaling, which allows proper communication between nerve cells. Low levels of these vitamins, especially B12 and folate, have been linked to mood disorders, such as depression.</p>



<p>Finally, they’re a good source of zinc, magnesium, selenium, and non-heme iron, which may likewise elevate your spirits.</p>



<blockquote class="wp-block-quote"><p><strong>SUMMARY</strong></p><p>Beans and lentils are rich sources of mood-boosting nutrients, particularly B vitamins.</p></blockquote>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">The bottom line</h2>



<p>When feeling blue, you may crave calorie-rich, high sugar foods like&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/ice-cream">ice cream</a>&nbsp;or cookies to try to lift your spirits.</p>



<p>While this might give you a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/too-much-sugar">sugar rush</a>, it’s unlikely to help you in the long term — and may have negative consequences as well.</p>



<p>Instead, you should aim for wholesome foods that have been shown to not only boost your mood but also your overall health. Try out some of the foods above to kick-start your positivity routine.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Source</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mood-food">https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mood-food</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
		<item>
		<title>15 Morning Drinks to Get Your Day Started</title>
		<link>https://www.safepod.sg/15-morning-drinks-to-get-your-day-started/</link>
		
		<dc:creator><![CDATA[Safepod Admin]]></dc:creator>
		<pubDate>Mon, 23 Nov 2020 13:08:49 +0000</pubDate>
				<category><![CDATA[Food for Mood]]></category>
		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://aqum.themezinho.net/?p=49</guid>

					<description><![CDATA[Did you know most of us start our mornings already dehydrated? Think about it: Sleeping seven or eight hours a night is a long time to go without water. And that’s not counting other factors that might be at play — like maybe a few too many glasses of wine the night before. So, by [&#8230;]]]></description>
										<content:encoded><![CDATA[
<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Did you know most of us start our mornings already dehydrated?</h2>



<p>Think about it: Sleeping seven or eight hours a night is a long time to go without water. And that’s not counting other factors that might be at play — like maybe a few too many glasses of wine the night before.</p>



<p>So, by the time you wake up, your body is likely, already slightly dehydrated.</p>



<p>The good news though? This can be easily fixed.</p>



<p>While&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-health-benefits-of-water">water</a>&nbsp;is always the best option to start your day, other healthy libations can have a beneficial role.</p>



<p>Find out the best drinks to sip first thing in the morning for hydration, hangovers, energy, boosting your metabolism, and more.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">1. Make over your morning glass of water</h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image"><img decoding="async" src="https://i0.wp.com/images-prod.healthline.com/hlcmsresource/images/topic_centers/2018-9/9553-01-lemon_water-1296x728-body-image-01.jpg?w=1155&amp;h=1528" alt=""/></figure>



<p>The benefits of drinking water (at least 2 cups) first thing in the morning are plenty. Besides flushing out toxins and providing some much-needed hydration, this amount of water can&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17519319" target="_blank">increase your metabolism</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Freshen your cup with hints of vitamins</h3>



<p>But who said your morning cup of water has to be plain? Infuse your water with lemon (or other citrus), herbs, cucumber, and fruit.</p>



<p><strong>Bonus:&nbsp;</strong>Lemon water also provides a dose of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16373990" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">immune-boostingTrusted Source</a>&nbsp;vitamin C — just 1 ounce of lemon juice contains nearly a&nbsp;<a href="https://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/fruits-and-fruit-juices/1938/2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fourth</a>&nbsp;of your recommended daily vitamin C intake.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Add a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar</h3>



<p>We know even just the idea of drinking apple cider vinegar (ACV) can result in raised eyebrows, but here’s why you should. Apple cider vinegar has been proven to lower&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/27/1/281.long" target="_blank">blood sugar</a>&nbsp;and aid in&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19661687" target="_blank">weight loss</a>. Initial studies also hint that ACV can help&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5788933/" target="_blank">kill pathogens</a>.</p>



<p>To reap the benefits of this&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16630552" target="_blank">metabolism-boosting</a>&nbsp;beverage, simply mix 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into your morning glass of water.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Go for sparkling or coconut</h3>



<p>Sparkling water can be a hydrating and fun option, but just make sure you’re drinking the pure, unsweetened stuff.</p>



<p>Refreshing&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/8-coconut-water-benefits">coconut water</a>&nbsp;is also a good option, and packed with plenty of nutrients, minerals, and&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24141413" target="_blank">antioxidants</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">2. Hydrate while boosting your metabolism</h2>



<p>Not feeling like downing H<sub>2</sub>O when you wake up? While we strongly recommend starting the day with a glass of water, here are some alternatives your body will also be okay with.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Boost your metabolism with green tea</h3>



<p>Sipping green tea comes with several health benefits thanks to its high dose of&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3679539/" target="_blank">antioxidants</a>. One of these benefits is a big boost to your metabolism. Studies have shown that green tea not only increases&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16840650" target="_blank">metabolic rate</a>, but can also help&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18326618" target="_blank">burn fat</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Hold off hunger with bulletproof coffee</h3>



<p>While coffee alone has been shown to benefit metabolism, drinking a cup of bulletproof coffee first thing in the morning will provide double duty.</p>



<p>This is because both&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2912010" target="_blank">coffee</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12634436" target="_blank">MCTs</a>&nbsp;(medium-chain fats) have an effect on metabolism. When it comes to making bulletproof coffee, try coconut oil (a rich source of MCTs) or&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mct-oil-benefits#section1">MCT oil</a>, but be sure to not replace a nutritious breakfast with this delicious morning starter.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">3. Feeling fatigued? Drink this for energy</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Amp up your energy with vegetable juice</h3>



<p>If your morning caffeine just isn’t doing the trick, think about switching your cup of coffee for a glass of green juice.</p>



<p>Hear us out. The nutrients found in vegetables — specifically leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach — are proven to promote energy levels.</p>



<p>Vegetables that are especially high in iron aid in delivering oxygen to your cells and fighting&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11190004" target="_blank">fatigue</a>&nbsp;head-on.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Get a cleaner buzz with Yerba mate</h3>



<p>For a cleaner caffeine buzz without those coffee-associated jitters, consider a cup of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/yerba-mate-benefits">yerba mate</a>. This South American tea-like beverage contains an abundance of antioxidants, vitamins, and amino acids.</p>



<p>The unique chemical makeup of mate’s active compounds (all 196 of them!) provide a boost of&nbsp;<a href="https://nutritionandmetabolism.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1743-7075-11-42" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">sustained energy</a>&nbsp;without the negative side effects.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Go big with goji berry juice</h3>



<p>This small superfood packs a big punch. With vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and eight essential amino acids,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/goji-berry-facts">goji berries</a>&nbsp;are one of the most nutritionally dense foods on the planet.</p>



<p>Start your day with a glass of goji berry juice for a dose of vitamins with a side of serious energy.</p>



<p><a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18447631" target="_blank">Studies</a>&nbsp;have shown that drinking goji berry juice results in:</p>



<ul><li>increased energy levels</li><li>improved athletic performance</li><li>better mental focus</li><li>decreased stress and fatigue</li></ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">4. What to sip on for a sensitive stomach</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Settle your tummy with ginger tea</h3>



<p>Ginger is a popular common cure of stomach woes, and for good reason. Sipping on ginger tea first thing in the morning can ease&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4818021/" target="_blank">stomach discomfort</a>, nausea, vomiting, and&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/jf071460f" target="_blank">diarrhea</a>.</p>



<p>To make&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/ginger-for-treatment#uses">ginger tea</a>, add a few tablespoons of finely grated fresh ginger to a cup of boiling water and steep for five minutes.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Soothe your stomach with aloe juice</h3>



<p>Aloe is widely known to help heal cuts, skin issues, and too much time in the sun, but this plant can be helpful for stomach issues as well.</p>



<p>The anti-inflammatory properties in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/aloe-vera-juice-benefits#1">aloe vera juice</a>&nbsp;help to reduce gastrointestinal inflammation and have been proven beneficial to those experiencing&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3872617/" target="_blank">IBS</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">5. A cup of this will cure your hangover</h2>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Try to drink some tomato juice</h3>



<p>If you partied a little too hard the night before, starting your morning with a (virgin) Bloody Mary might be your answer. Tomatoes not only provide plenty of hydration (they’re&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.myfooddata.com/articles/vegetables-high-in-water.php" target="_blank">95 percent water</a>), but have been scientifically proven to help reverse the&nbsp;<a rel="noreferrer noopener" href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4820955/" target="_blank">effects of alcohol</a>.</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Sip on bone broth</h3>



<p>While it seems that&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/bone-broth">bone broth</a>&nbsp;is the answer to everything these days, it can certainly help tame those hangover woes.</p>



<p>This nutrient-dense broth is packed with all of the electrolytes, vitamins, and minerals that your post-party body needs. The electrolytes found in bone broth (magnesium, potassium, and calcium) are great at replacing the sodium and potassium that is&nbsp;<a href="https://pubs.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/arh22-1/54-60.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">lost from drinking alcohol</a>.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">6. Get a full breakfast in with these smoothie recipes</h2>



<p>For a morning beverage on-the-go that’s also packed with enough substance to call itself breakfast, make yourself a simple breakfast smoothie.</p>



<p>Consider this vitamin-packed&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-smoothie-recipes#tomato">tomato smoothie</a>&nbsp;if you’re not feeling your best self.</p>



<p>Want a metabolism boost? Blend this&nbsp;<a href="https://www.thereciperebel.com/metabolism-boosting-smoothie/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">fruit smoothie</a>&nbsp;with a surprising and refreshing addition of green tea.</p>



<p>Or choose from these&nbsp;<a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/immune-boost-smoothie-recipe">four immune-boosting smoothies</a>&nbsp;that are packed with fiber, vitamins, and protein.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What morning drinks should you avoid?</h2>



<p>Staying hydrated is simple with these healthy morning beverage options. But what drinks should you steer clear from?</p>



<p>It’s recommended not to drink&nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/06/160607081322.htm" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">soda</a>&nbsp;(or other drinks high in refined sugar), energy drinks, alcohol (yes, even Mimosas!), or coffee on an empty stomach. These drinks can all be severely dehydrating and provide some unwelcome&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rd.com/health/wellness/never-drink-coffee-empty-stomach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">morning jitters</a>.</p>



<p>From metabolism-boosting green tea to fatigue-fighting goji berry juice, which drinks are you most excited to try?</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Source</h3>



<p><a href="https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/what-do-drink-in-the-morning">https://www.healthline.com/health/food-nutrition/what-do-drink-in-the-morning</a></p>
]]></content:encoded>
					
		
		
			</item>
	</channel>
</rss>
