It’s officially 2017 and it’s also officially January – the beginning of the “winter blues”. Whether there is snow outside or not, January and February are notorious for putting many of us in a slump.

The excitement and hectic pace of the holidays are over and our days are back to the usual schedules and routines.

For some of us, getting back to our routines is a comfort. But for many – these “deep winter” months are a source of sadness and depression. The cold, the shorter periods of light, and the “long winter’s nights”.

There’s a great Rx for that and it doesn’t come in a pill bottle.

Just as our moods can set up cravings for a variety of comfort foods, there is the reverse effect – foods can make a big difference in how our moods change.

Read about 7 fabulous choices of foods that can lift your spirits, balance your hormones, increase your energy and have a positively wonderful affect on how you feel.

I could have saved the best for last, but I wanted to make you feel happy right away so…..

Dark Chocolate
Are you one of those people who does a happy dance just at the mere thought of a big luscious bar of pure chocolate?

There’s actually a chemical reason for that!

There is a neurotransmitter produced in the brain – called anandamide that temporarily blocks feelings of pain and depression. Don’t worry about remembering that – just remember that it’s a derivative of the Sanskrit word “bliss”. If you’re a chocolate lover you’ll be able to connect bliss with the thought of chocolate. It not only produces this compound, it also contains other chemicals that prolong the “feel-good” effects of this neurotransmitter. Chocolate has even been referred to as “the new anti-anxiety drug.”

The next good news is…

Coffee

It seems your “cup o’ joe” will affect a number of neurotransmitters related to mood control, so drinking your morning java can start your day with an increased sense of well being. How’s that for good news?

Research has shown that coffee triggers a mechanism in your brain that releases BDNF (Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor) – an important protein that affects a variety of functions. It prevents the loss of brain cells and promotes the growth of new neurons. Low levels of BDNF have been linked to Alzheimer’s, accelerated aging, poor neural development, neurotransmitter dysfunction, obesity, depression, and even schizophrenia!

Prozac or Coffee? I know what my choice is!

Protein

A high-quality source of protein – like organic eggs, a handful of almonds, pistachios, cashews…. helps to keep your blood sugar levels steady for enhanced energy and mood.

Bananas

Bananas contain dopamine, a natural mood elevator. They’re also rich in B vitamins, including vitamin B6, which help to soothe your nervous system, and magnesium, another nutrient associated with positive mood. Warning: take care to limit them if you have insulin/leptin resistance and keep in mind they are high in sugars and carbs.

Once in awhile half a banana dipped in dark chocolate could take you to your happy place. We wouldn’t want to eliminate such a source of joy entirely.

Turmeric (Curcumin)

Curcumin, the pigment that gives this spice its vibrant yellow-orange color, is thought to be the source of its many medicinal effects. Among them, curcumin has neuroprotective properties and may enhance mood and possibly help with depression.

Its’ anti-inflammatory properties will help with minor joint aches and pains and that spells happy to me.

“Royal Colored” Berries

Anthocyanins are the pigments that give blueberries and blackberries their beautiful deep color. These antioxidants aid your brain in the production of dopamine, the feel good chemical mentioned earlier. Dopamine also boosts memory function so you can “recall the good feelings”. Another plus!

Animal-Based Omega-3 Fats

Abundant in wild caught salmon, flaxseeds and walnuts or supplement form, such as krill oil, the omega-3 fats EPA and DHA play a role in your emotional well-being. One study in Brain Behavior and Immunity showed a dramatic 20 percent reduction in anxiety among medical students taking omega-3 (and we know how stressful med school is!). Past research has shown omega-3 fats work just as well as antidepressants in preventing the signs of depression, but without any of the side effects.

I’ll take walnut crusted salmon over anti-depressants any day!

There are so many ways to combine these foods that you can include them in your everyday selections. Sprinkle turmeric on your scrambled eggs for breakfast – it will add a lot of brilliant color and a very mild taste. Try a trail mix of dark chocolate chips, dried blueberries and walnuts for a snack. Almond crusted salmon is easy and the taste is out of this world.

It’s easy to beat the winter blues by “foraging” in your kitchen and avoiding the pharmacy. Happy hunting!