Eat Yourself to a Better Mood

The shortest—and darkest days—are looming. And as Old Man Winter tightens his grip on us, it can take a toll on our mood, and leave some of us feeling a little blue. But the solution isn’t to hibernate on the couch. Instead, make a beeline for the kitchen.

The way we eat can shape our mental health; the latest research confirms the old adage, “You are what you eat.” Whether it’s certain nutrients in particular foods that can help you shake that whole why-is-the-universe-ruining-my-life? feeling or comfort food dishes that make you feel all cozy inside as temperatures outside begin to dip, how we choose to eat can help turn our mood around. So think of these recipes as your own personal happiness remedy.

Cozy Chili Mac and Cheese

Chocolate Chunk Cookie Pie

Slow Roasted Salmon with Cultured Avocado Sauce 

Roasted Beet, Apple, and Lentil Salad with Warm Maple Dressing 

Med-Style Chicken Tacos

Check out this article for 5 simple eating strategies to help look on the bright side more often.

A version of this article was published in the November 2019 issue of alive Canada  with the title “Happy Meals.”