Happiness is an innate desire of every being, including animals. People seek happiness in several things and places.

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People also eat their way out of sadness, often building up excess weight.

Feeling depressed, moody or sad, rather than grab a pack of chips or biscuits, try these healthy foods

Dates

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Fruits with a good ratio of tryptophan to phenylalanine and leucine —like dates, papaya and banana— will increase serotonin levels, and thus feelings of happiness.

Berries

Berries are rich in flavonoid, which helps regulate mood and improve memory and reduces inflammation of the brain.

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Whole grains

Whole grains are a great source of B vitamins, which are key nutrients for good moods.

Vitamin B6 deficiencies can lead to higher stress, irritability, tiredness and depression. By choosing whole grains, you can get your mood back in the groove.

Salmon

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Salmon is rich in omega-3 DHA rich foods and contains folate, linked with decreased symptoms of depression in men, and B12, linked with decreased depression in women.

It is a good source of Vitamin D, which can help combat seasonal affective disorder (SAD).

Purple cauliflower

Purple cauliflower is full of vitamin B6 and folate needed by the body to make serotonin and dopamine, both neurotransmitters responsible for happiness.

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Red beans

Red beans are rich in antioxidants. They are also a near-complete protein and the amino acids in the protein contain mood-boosting neurotransmitters. They also contain lots of iron, a deficiency of which can cause brain disorders.

Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes have more beta-carotene than carrots. Beta-carotene is linked to a decreased risk of dementia. They’re also high in B6, which belongs to a group of compounds used to treat mood disorders.

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Blue potatoes

Though not common, they are worth the search. Blue potatoes get their colour from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that provide neuroprotective benefits like bolstering short-term memory and reducing mood-killing inflammation.

Dark chocolates

Dark chocolate stimulates the production of endorphins, chemicals in the brain that creates feelings of pleasure. It also contains serotonin, an antidepressant that can elevate mood.

Asparagus

This vegetable is one of the top plant-based sources of tryptophan, which serves as a basis for the creation of serotonin. Asparagus also boasts high levels of folate, a nutrient that may fight depression.

Water

Dehydration causes fatigue and in the long run, alters a person’s mood, energy levels and mental function. Drink enough water daily for sustained happiness.

Green tea

Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid which has a calming effect on the brain and improves mental focus.

Banana

Bananas contain tryptophan, a brain chemical that helps to regulate mood.

Spinach

Spinach is rich in folic acid, which alleviates depression and reduces fatigue.



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