Mood Foods – An Energizing Winter Shopping List

By:

We’ve all felt the winter blues. Between shorter daylight hours and the cold weather, winter can wear on even the hardiest Minnesotans. On the days we feel BLAH, foods found at Lakewinds can help boost moods and provide a much needed energy boost. Add the following mood food to your grocery list and make your winter a little brighter.

 

Pasture-Raised Eggs

Protein and fat found in eggs provide crucial energy when busy days seem more tiring than usual. Eggs aren’t just for breakfast – baking a quiche on the weekend will provide a few quick, protein-packed breakfasts or lunches for the busy workweek ahead.

 

Dark Leafy Greens

Our next mood foods are greens. Chard, kale, spinach, and romaine are high in folate and magnesium, both found to improve energy and focus. In addition to salads, try adding greens to breakfast smoothies, soups and stir-fry dishes.

 

Citrus

Oils found in the peels of oranges, lemons, limes and grapefruit are invigorating and uplifting. Diffuse your own citrus essential oils at home or add grated citrus peel to salad dressings and sauces. Winter is citrus season, so enjoy while the offerings are bountiful!

 

Fatty Fish

Fish is another healthy mood food. Salmon, sardines, tuna, and trout are all high in Omega 3 fatty acids, which our bodies don’t produce naturally. These essential fats are important for brain function and play a role in producing dopamine and serotonin. Stick with sustainably sourced and wild-caught fish whenever possible.

 

Dark Chocolate

An ounce or two per day can help improve blood flow to the brain and aid concentration. Choose Fair Trade and organic chocolate to make sure your shopping dollars are boosting someone else’s life as well!

 

Tea

Black and green teas contain moderate amounts of caffeine as well as antioxidants and other substances that may increase energy and concentration. Consider replacing your morning coffee with healthy and energizing tea once or twice a week. Add some local raw honey!

 

When the dark days of winter have you down, add these mood foods to your diet and get a lift. Remember to drink plenty of water, exercise and get outside when you’re able as well. Here’s to a happy and brighter winter season!

 

Watch our video for Mediterranean Quinoa! It has healthy mood foods spinach and lemon, as well as quinoa, feta, cherry tomatoes and other delicious ingredients.