These foods are scientifically proven to boost your mood

Whether it's comfort food after a long day or a delightful bite of your favorite dish – food and emotions are closely linked.

And certain foods are even said to make us happier – especially chocolate! However, a new study shows that there are even better candidates to lift our mood!

The secret behind the mood boosters

The well-being that a piece of chocolate often brings is due to the composition of the food. The key ingredients are amino acids like tryptophan, which stimulate the production of the "happiness hormone" serotonin. According to science, a particularly effective source – unsurprisingly – is carbohydrates!

Recipes for a good mood: Pasta, bread & co.

Carbohydrate-rich foods play a major role in our mood. They promote the release of insulin, which in turn facilitates the transport of tryptophan to the brain – thus boosting serotonin production. No wonder a plate of pasta or a serving of potatoes often leaves us feeling especially content. This is now confirmed by a recent study from the Behavior & Brain Lab at the Independent University of Languages and Communication (IULM) in Italy. The research, which analyzed emotional and neurophysiological processes during pasta consumption, concluded that eating pasta triggers a "strong and lasting positive emotional-cognitive state." Around 70% of participants reported feeling "overwhelming joy" while eating, and approximately 40% described pasta as true comfort food!
Due to the small number of participants, the study's results are not yet considered representative, but they still provide fascinating insights

Other food mood boosters

However, other foods can also be scientifically shown to improve mood: Bananas and nuts are rich in tryptophan, while fatty fish like salmon have a positive impact on the brain due to their omega-3 fatty acids. Fermented foods like yogurt or sauerkraut also contribute to a better mood, thanks to their positive effect on the gut – an organ closely linked to our emotions.

Small bites, big impact

Of course, no food is a guarantee for happiness, but science confirms that our diet influences our mood.

That makes food an easy way to add a little portion of happiness to your daily life and – even on bad days – enjoy a little delicious bright spot, whether in the form of a big plate of pasta!