5 foods to boost your mood

Do you often feel upset and stressed out, or even depressed? Though there may be many causes for these emotions, there is a way to uplift your mood and feel better — and the solution is as simple as eating the right kind of food. Surprised? Yes, your food intake actually can have as much to do with how you feel mentally and emotionally, as it does with the general well-being of your body. Nutritionists say tweaks in your daily diet can help make you feel better in the short- and long-term. To start you off, here are five foods that will help uplift your mood and keep you happy. Bon Appétit!

CITRUS FOODS — Foods such as oranges, lemons and limes are high in Vitamin C, which helps alleviate stress, according to a 2002 study in Psychopharmacology. So, if you're eating up a lot of junk food as part of your stress eating (which by itself is harmful), why not make a shift to healthier options that would keep you calm as well. (Source: Thinkstock Images)

MEAT, FISH AND POULTRY — Fish, meat and poultry have high levels of Vitamin B12, which help in keeping homocysteine levels low. High levels of homocysteine can be an indicator of depression, especially among women, according to an article in the Archives of General Psychiatry. (Source: Thinkstock Images)

FISH AND FLAXSEEDS — Basically look at foods with high Omega-3 fatty acids. This includes fish like tuna and and salmon, flaxseeds — its oil as well — and even walnut oil. These fats help the body combat depressive emotions and have a positive impact on mood swings. (Source: Thinkstock Images)

DARK CHOCOLATE: Yes, this sinful delight is actually good for you — but within reason. Small amounts of dark chocolate taken daily increases the levels of endorphins — popularly known as feel-good chemicals — in the body. Need one say more? (Source: Thinkstock Images)

LEAFY GREENS, NUTS AND EGGS — Packed with Vitamin B, these health foods create neurotransmitters such as serotonin in the body, which help in calming the mind and reducing anxiety. (Source: Thinkstock Images)