New Delhi: All of us are aware of the fact that 'we are what we eat'. Similarly, our eating habits also affect our moods as much as our body weight and shape.


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A nutrient-rich food not only keeps you in tip-top health, but also boosts your happiness and fights symptoms of depression, anxiety and other mental health issues.


 


Aim for foods that are rich in vitamins, minerals and fatty acids for a healthy body and mind. Here are some superfoods that pump up your mood, energy, brainpower and help you to slim down:


Legumes


Legumes contain high amount of fiber and other essential nutrients. Low in fat, legumes are a very healthy food because they are high in protein. Research suggests that eating one serving of beans, peas, lentils or chickpeas every day may help dieters lose a little extra weight.


Swiss chard


A leafy green vegetable packed with magnesium, Swiss chard is one of the most nutritious vegetables on the planet. Magnesium is a nutrient essential for maintaining normal muscle and nerve function. It is often used in Mediterranean cooking.


Spinach


Spinach, kale and cabbage have endorphin-boosting properties. These vegetables are also packed with vitamin B6, which can help fight the stress hormone cortisol. Spinach is also a good source of iron, which helps metabolizs proteins and plays a role in the production of hemoglobin and red blood cells.


Nuts


Nuts, especially walnuts, are one of the richest dietary sources of serotonin, a chemical that helps create calm and happiness, and its deficiency can lead to depression.


Dark chocolate


Dark chocolate improves your mood as it stimulates the production of 'feel-good' chemicals called endorphins. Eating dark chocolate also increases serotonin levels in the brain.