The quality of diet has a lasting impact on our physical health and overall psychological well-being. While some foods trigger adverse reactions physically, others tend to increase the risk of developing mental health disorders. Though medication is available to treat psychological conditions like bipolar disorder, it’s the type of food consumed that makes a profound difference.

Choosing the right food for this condition is somewhat tricky due to the fluctuation between two extremes in mood conditions. There are these “highs” where the individual feels euphoric, and the next moment, the “lows” promote depression and lethargy.

Avocados
This superfood has monounsaturated fats that are excellent for your heart and work effectively to enhance receptors in the brain that respond to serotonin to boost mood. These foods also lower blood pressure and relax the mind while keeping cholesterol levels at bay.

Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids have compounds like EPA and DHA that promote brain function and encourage signaling between nerve cells. They are known to stabilize mood and help in the healthy functioning of the brain and the heart. They’re one of the highest sources of nutrients and are found in abundance in cold-water fish.

Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is way healthier for your mood since it doesn’t contain a lot of sugar and other artificial ingredients like milk chocolate. It can be bitter to taste but will uplift your mood with its ability to release serotonin and produce valproic acid that regulates mood swings. However, limit the consumption to 1 ounce per day.

Low-fat dairy
Opt for skimmed milk, low-fat cheese, and yogurt that are high in calcium and vitamin D. These foods are great for your body, maintain a healthy gut, and promote a feel-good factor naturally. Low-fat dairy products contain proteins like specific peptides to induce a sense of well-being and relaxation.

Sunflower seeds
They have a rich amount of vitamin B9 that works to activate brain cells and promote a sense of well-being. You can consume them for snacks or add them to salads for a delicious meal. A handful of sunflower seeds contain a significant amount of folate and magnesium to promote overall health and enhance mood.

Probiotics
Probiotics are those foods that contain a rich amount of healthy bacteria essential to maintain your gut health. Apart from the physical benefits these bacteria provide, they help regulate your emotional health and promote a more relaxed mood. They can also fight inflammation and help maintain your overall health that increases the feel-good factor.

Whole grains
Foods made from whole grains have rich amounts of carbohydrates that boost serotonin production. This is a neurotransmitter that regulates and promotes a good mood and enhances emotional health. Choose foods like bread, rice, and crackers loaded with this feel-good chemical that reduces anxiety and keeps you more relaxed and active.

Herbal tea
Herbal tea is loaded with chamomile that helps soothe an upset stomach, fights anxiety, and prevents insomnia. Herbal tea also has soothing effects on your mind and can help relieve depression safely and naturally.