Your overall health follows cycles and you can take control of those cycles. Think about it for a minute. If something is making you unhappy, it can make you feel unwell. Many times, when you are happy you heal much faster. Depression can set in and cause physical disorders (1), so it is important to understand how to take advantage of the reverse. The nutrients from foods can not only boost your mood and promote your health but help you lose weight as well. FANTASTIC FATTY ACIDS Omega 3s fatty acids can be a very powerful weapon to protect your overall health. They shield your body from free radical damage and enhance your immune system. The Faculty of Health Sciences at Ben Gurion University found that Omega 3s reduced depression in both children and adults diagnosed with bipolar disorder (2). There are many tasty foods that contain high levels of omega 3s, but salmon may be one of the best sources. It provides good fats that your body requires while offering a lean, mean protein source. It is simple to prepare whether grilling it outdoors or braising it in the oven. BLUEBERRY BREAKFAST A smoothie is a healthy and refreshing way to start the morning. Smoothies can be prepared with many health goals in mind. Blueberries provide antioxidants to protect the body and promote overall health. They have been crowned super food due to their high level of vitamins. Blueberries were scientifically proven to reduce belly fat and triglycerides (3). GREEN & CLEAN Swiss Chard contains a lot of magnesium which has been proven as an effective treatment for depression (4). It has also been discovered to boost memory skills and learning (5). Swiss chard contains high levels of dietary fiber to help eliminate waste and tons of antioxidants to fight inflammation associated with obesity as well as boost your immune system. Freshly grilled salmon and a crisp bed of swiss chard make a wonderful pair. CLEVER CATECHINS Green tea offers phenols that have been proven to improve cognitive function and reduce body fat. A study at the Health Care Food Research Laboratories in Japan showed that these phenols lessened obesity risks (6) and another from Tokyo revealed that they diminish body fat (7). In addition to this, the Kyung Hee University found that catechins lowered anxiety and depression incidence (8). SPEEDY PEPPER Peppers contain a wide range of vital nutrients and produce a thermogenic effect within your body (9). Just about all varieties offer certain amount capsaicin which speeds the metabolism and incites fat oxidation. Generally the spicier the pepper, the more it provides. Habaneros are probably one of the easiest to find and richest in capsaicin. Be careful, as they are also one of the spiciest of peppers available. Capsaicin is known to produce an analgesic effect within your body. It is often recommended for certain types of headaches and added to muscle rubs. It is believed that the burning sensation triggers the release of endorphins which brings about a sense somewhat like euphoria. Keep in mind that, as mentioned earlier, health is a cycle. Incorporating foods that assist in burning fat and boosting your mood into your diet addresses two aspects of health. The effects of following a diet rich in these nutrients will help you lose weight which will increase your mood. You will spiral upward to fitness success.
US
AU
CA