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Are there any particular foods or supplements that can boost your mood and sense of self?

Shantell Tantum

Hey friend,

Great question! There are definitely certain foods and supplements that can boost your mood and sense of self. While each person's body is unique and may react differently to different things, I'll give you some general tips to consider.

First off, it's important to recognize that food really can impact your mood. If you're consistently feeling down or moody, it might be helpful to examine your diet and see if there are any changes you could make. Here are a few foods that have been linked to improved moods:

- Fatty fish: Fish like salmon and tuna contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are thought to reduce inflammation in the body and improve brain function. Some studies have found that people who eat more fatty fish have lower rates of depression and anxiety.
- Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate contains antioxidants and compounds that can trigger the release of endorphins (feel-good chemicals) in the brain. Plus, who doesn't feel a little better after a piece of chocolate?
- Fermented foods: Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, and yogurt contain probiotics, which can have a positive impact on your gut health. There's emerging research to suggest that gut health and mood are linked, so incorporating some fermented foods into your diet might be worth a try.
- Leafy greens: Leafy greens like spinach and kale are high in folate, which is a B vitamin that's been associated with better moods. Some studies have even found that people with depression tend to have lower folate levels than people without depression.

In addition to adjusting your diet, you might consider taking some supplements to help boost your mood. Here are a few that are commonly recommended:

- Vitamin D: Many people are deficient in vitamin D, which can impact mood. If you don't get much sunlight (which is where we get most of our vitamin D), it might be beneficial to take a supplement.
- Omega-3s: If you're not a fan of fish, you can still get the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids by taking a supplement. There are many options out there - just be sure to talk to your doctor or a pharmacist before starting any new supplement.
- St. John's Wort: This herb has been used for centuries to treat depression and is believed to work by increasing levels of serotonin in the brain. It's important to note that St. John's Wort can interact with some medications (including birth control pills), so be sure to check with your doctor before taking it.

Of course, as with any changes to your diet or supplements, it's always best to talk to a healthcare professional first. They can help you determine if any of these options are appropriate for you and make sure you're not taking anything that could interact with any medications you're currently on.

I hope this was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions.

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