We all want to feel get the most out of our days and our mood plays a big part on how productive we are. Taking time away from screens and having a walk can help clear our heads and help us refocus. But what if we told you there are mood boosting foods?

Our bodies have a massive impact on our mood. Often the foods that keep us physically fit leave us feeling bored and a bit disappointed. However, we are here to tell you that we have found foods that can make your frown turn upside down. Food has become an art and many people have taken to the task of finding how to make the foods that have the most benefits into something that is full of taste! Now we can actually eat healthy and boost our mood at the same time!

Small But Mighty: The Chia Seed

Chia seeds are tiny seeds gathered from “Salvia Hispanica” – a flowering plant belonging to the mint family. They were originally used by the Aztecs and have become popular in Western cultures due to their versatility as a cooking ingredient and innumerable health benefits including being a mood boosting food.

With high levels of both B vitamins and many minerals (such as calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc), chia seeds can help increase brain functioning, lower ‘bad’ cholesterol levels and increase bone strength. But what about their effectiveness as a mood booster? Well, Chia seeds are packed with Omega-3. Studies are starting to suggest that Omega-3 there is a link between having low Omega-3 levels and having depression, and increased levels of the fatty acid can help fight off low-mood. 

Chia seeds can also easily be made into loads of different tasty and still good-for-you treats. A staple of chia-seed lovers is ‘Chia Seed Pudding’. The method to create this delicious dessert is somewhat similar to overnight oats but is extensively customisable. Below we’ve included a recipe for chocolate Chia Seed Pudding. Try swapping out the cocoa powder for some freeze-dried raspberry powder or adding in some raisins or toasted pecans to the mixture. Create an easy, simple, dessert tailored to your favourite comfort-flavours!  

Ingredients:

2 tbsp chia seeds 

125ml oat milk (or substitute for any other type of milk) 

2 tsp cocoa powder 

2 tsp maple syrup, plus a drizzle to serve 

Your choice of fruit to serve (eg; fresh strawberries, bananas, kiwis or mango)  

Method:

Combine chia seeds, oat milk, cocoa powder, and maple syrup in a mason jar ( or a bowl if you don’t have a jar)

Cover the chia seeds and chill in the fridge for at least 8 hours or overnight

Once the chia seeds have had time to settle, take out of fridge and add your chosen fruit and extra maple syrup or a drizzle of honey

Tuck in and enjoy!

For more foodie facts check out our previous blogs