7 Recipes that will make you feel good when the weather has got you down

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The colder the weather becomes, the more our moods tend to be affected by the darker days of Winter (a type of depression known as SAD – seasonal affective disorder).

We’ve found 7 ingredients which are mood enhancers that have additional health benefits.

Bananas

Known as the “happy fruit”, according to The Amazing Bananas, the sunshine coloured fruit contains the protein tryptophan which the body converts into serotonin, which causes you to relax and experience a better mood. Want to jazz up your bananas? Try this bacon peanut butter banana bread recipe to begin your day in a good mood.

     

Quinoa
This superfood stays true to its status and having Melissa Hemsley’s quinoa power porridge for breakfast will set the tone for a wonderful day ahead. Who doesn’t want food that looks like art for breakfast? We know we do!

Berries

The nutrients, anthocyahidins and anthocyanins found in strawberries, raspberries and blueberries aids in reducing depression and stress according to Men’s Journal.These tantalizing low carb berry cheesecake yoghurt popsicles are bound to get your spirits up, and what’s even better? The recipe serves 8 so you can make it ahead and keep it in the freezer and just have one whenever the weather blues hit you.

Salmon 

Men’s Journal says that salmon is high in Omega-3 and Vitamin B12, making this fatty fish an anti-depressant and aids in improving your focus and memory. Make this delectable salmon with a herb crust for lunch or dinner and reap its benefits!

Oysters

Live Happy says that helping you to build a healthier heart is through an oyster. It is your low-calorie friend that will aid in boosting your mood with the high zinc and protein content. Try these 3 vinaigrettes from Franck Dangeruex for a culinary upgrade when indulging in oysters.

Coffee

Coffee stimulates the release of dopamine according to Steth news, which causes us to have an enhanced feeling of euphoria. No wonder some of us are only chirpy after that first cup of coffee in the morning!

If #hangry relates to the anger of being hungry, we definitely need a name for the anger of not having our cuppa Joe. Make this mouthwatering frozen tiramisu to remind you of Summer and get your coffee dosage at the same time.

Dark Chocolate 

Be Brain Fit says that trytophan and magnesium in dark chocolate can calm your muscles along with reducing anxiety and depression. Not that we needed more reasons to eat chocolate!

Enjoy a piece of dark chocolate as is or get your apron on and bake this beautiful chocolate cake with dark chocolate ganache icing to get your dark chocolate fix.

What’s your go-to #comfortfood that instantaneously puts you in a good mood? Tell us in the comments section below! 

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