A good mood or happiness makes a person more focused and productive. A study by Oxford University in coordination with British Telecom shows that happy workers are 13% more productive. The foods you consume directly impact your mood and productivity, and that’s why experts recommend eating food for the brain.
Proper nutrition impacts the proper functioning of the brain regularly. Certain foods will make the brain work efficiently, contributing to an individual’s good mood and ultimately leading to an increase in memory and focus, making them more productive.
So, getting enough of these foods consistently is very important. If you struggle with some kind of mood disorder that has ruined your productive self to a considerable extent, try adding these five superfoods to your diet:
1. Kratom
Derived from the leaves of the evergreen Mitragyna speciosa tree that’s native to Southeast Asia, Kratom is known for its benefits related to focus and energy. The two most important active alkaloids in Kratom, 7-hydroxy mitragynine and Mitragynine, offer uplifting, euphoric, and stimulating effects, working on the body’s receptors and providing mental clarity and energy at the same time.
Kratom for better mood and energy works by aggravating the release of dopamine, the brain’s neurotransmitter that offers you an immediate boost in focus and energy. Besides regulating your mood, it also offers heightened mental focus and awareness, the same effects created by caffeine. Still, without the crash or jitters, you may experience once its effects wear off.
Using superior-quality Kratom from Canada Kratom Express for attention at work or school is one of the best ways to enhance your performance and productivity. A small dose added to your regular regimen will improve concentration but note that different Kratom doses may have varied effects. Hence, keep a close watch on the amount you are taking.
2. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, like salmon and tuna, have omega-3 fatty acids or a group of crucial fats that a person should obtain from their diet since the body cannot produce them independently. Omega-3 fats act as anti-inflammatory signaling molecules and have an essential structural role in the brain, thus leading to improved mood and mitigating depression.
DHA, or docosahexaenoic acid, and EPA, or eicosatetraenoic acid, the two specific omega-3 fatty acids, are directly linked to lower depression levels. Studies suggest both EPA and DHA modulate the process of brain cell signaling, including the serotonergic and dopaminergic pathways, ultimately leading to improved mood.
Further, salmon also protects heart health by checking bad cholesterol levels, which is crucial for a healthy nervous system and brain. Even vitamin B12 in salmon transforms amino acids into neurotransmitters that trigger a pleasant mental sensation, resulting in a positive outlook and reduced impulsiveness.
3. Leafy Green Vegetables and Fruits
Leafy green vegetables, like kale and spinach, consist of fibers that cleanse the digestive tract, keep you feeling full for a long time and regularize bowel movements, so you do not crave food all the time and stay focused on what you are doing now.
Besides, vitamin B in these veggies improves brain function while loads of iron ward off the risk of behavioral changes, anxiety, stress, and worry. Iron also replenishes lost energy in the body, promoting a sensation of positivity and improved performance.
Apart from the above nutrients, magnesium, zinc, and folate in leafy greens eliminate the signs of mood disorders, like fatigue, low mood, cognitive decline, and irritability.
Broccoli and beets are other beneficial veggies considered great for brain productivity. The concentrated nitrates in beets serve as vasodilators that increase blood flow to different brain regions, thus regulating a person’s attention span and focus. On the other hand, broccoli’s wealth of minerals and vitamins keeps a person sharp while boosting their brain power.
Broccoli is also rich in choline content that helps with memory function, cognitive performance, and brain development, resulting in improved mood and productivity.
Speaking of mood and productivity-boosting fruits, apples and bananas are the best. Packed with antioxidants and glucose, they help the body and the brain remain focused and productive.
4. Fermented Foods
Besides supporting a healthy gut, fermented foods, such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut, positively influence one’s mood. The probiotics in these foods boost serotonin levels, or the happy hormone that instantly lifts your mood.
Fermented foods also positively affect metabolic health and blood sugar control, further impacting the brain and mood. Additionally, enriched chemicals and exclusive flavonoids in these foods have a positive impact on the microbiome that further works to mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation, which can negatively influence the brain.
But note that not all fermented foods are good sources of probiotics, such as bread, wine, and beer, because of filtering and cooking.
5. Seeds and Nuts
Seeds and nuts are natural mood boosters because they contain important vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, selenium, zinc, copper, B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and manganese. For example, almonds, the go-to source of antioxidants, protect the human body from free radicals while improving cognitive performance and brain functions.
The vitamin C present in almonds can balance hormones and eliminate anxiety and depression. You can have walnuts for memory as they are the powerhouse of vitamin E, amino acids, and antioxidants. Studies show that walnuts can also improve reasoning power and slow down cognitive deterioration.
Sunflower, pumpkin, and chia seeds are the best sources of zinc, magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, fibers, calcium, and iron, all of which are excellent mood boosters and can even help with anxiety and stress.
Conclusion
Feeling good and being productive comes from a balanced diet that contains vitamins, minerals, and proteins. Only then your body can stabilize glucose levels and support the overall body functions. So, include the above-mentioned foods in your diet for a good mood and better productivity. And, if needed, consult a nutritionist.
