![](https://livingwelldaily.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/LWD-231208-1000x667-1-1000x300.jpg)
5 Superfoods BLOW Away the Winter Blues
With the change of seasons and all the holiday cheer surrounding us, the winter blues can sometimes, unexpectedly, come roaring in.
If that sounds familiar, you should know you’re NOT alone.
Up to 20 percent of folks are in the same boat.
It’s easy to let everything slip when you’re feeling this way. But the truth is eating a healthy, well-balanced diet can help fight off the blues.
In fact, adding some mental-health-supporting “superfoods” to your diet TODAY could give you the boost needed to get you OVER this hump and INTO the holiday spirit.
I get it. When battling the blues, your appetite often goes on the fritz. Food is either the last thing on your mind or the ONLY thing you can think about.
But what you eat can significantly impact your mood, energy, and mental health.
Following are FIVE foods that pack a potent blues-busting punch.
Add more of them to your menu over the next couple of weeks, and TRULY have a happy holiday:
- Salmon is rich in the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which can reduce depression-linked brain inflammation. Enjoy salmon baked or grilled. I like to add mine to a delicious salad.
- Turmeric contains the potent compound curcumin, which boosts serotonin and dopamine, critical neurotransmitters for a positive mood. Sprinkle the spice into soups, smoothies, roasted veggies, and curries.
- Dark chocolate contains compounds that trigger a mood-lifting dopamine release to drive away the blues. Look for a chocolate containing at least 70% cocoa and enjoy it in moderation… a small square or two after meals.
- Walnuts are rich in plant-based omega-3 ALA, which can boost the low serotonin levels often linked to depression. Enjoy a small handful for a crunchy, satisfying snack.
- Green tea contains the potent amino acid L-theanine. L-theanine promotes the alpha brain waves associated with calm and relaxation. Sip a cup (or several) daily.
- Mushrooms are naturally high in the amino acid tryptophan (a precursor to serotonin). Plus, they’re rich in vitamin D, which can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
Diet isn’t a cure for the winter blues, of course. But it CAN help.
Incorporating more of these mood-boosting superfoods into your day can set the stage for feeling more upbeat and optimistic.
But remember, if you’re experiencing depression, always take it seriously. Seek professional advice if you need it.
P.S. BRIGHT idea drives down depression. Give it a try, starting TODAY!
Source:
Durrani D, et. al. “Vitamin B6: A new approach to lowering anxiety, and depression?,” Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2022 Sep 15;82:104663. doi: 10.1016 /j.amsu.2022.104663. PMID: 36268413; PMCID: PMC9577631.
![Dr. Scott Olson, ND](https://livingwelldaily.com/wp-content/themes/health-child/images/author-images/Dr.ScottOlson,ND.jpg)
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
Don’t Ignore This Weight Loss Drug WARNING
By now, you’ve heard the buzz about GLP-1 weight loss drugs such as Ozempic. They’re being hailed as game-changers in the fight against obesity, with everyone from celebrities to everyday folks singing their praises. But what if I told you these miracle medications might be hiding a dark secret? Or that ignoring this potential side...
Tiny Allies Could Revolutionize Weight Loss
We usually think of bacteria as the bad guys, right? Well, plot twist! Some of those bugs are actually GOOD for us. I’m talking about the friendly bacteria probiotics, of course. They hang out in your gut and help keep things running smoothly down there. Now, in the ongoing battle against obesity, scientists are exploring...
Bring Home the Magic of Outdoor Sleeping (No Backpack Required!)
I’m an avid backpacker and love sleeping outdoors. In fact, I dream of spending more nights sleeping under the stars than under a roof. There are many benefits to breathing outdoor air. (More on those in a moment.) But you don’t have to strap on a backpack to get the benefits of outdoor sleeping… A...
Fruit Bowl Secret to a Healthier Heart
We often think that improving our health requires drastic changes or complicated regimens. But that’s simply NOT the case. In fact, new research reveals eating more of a simple, tasty fruit could significantly lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. Keep reading to discover the delicious fruit-bowl secret to a healthier heart… New research suggests that...
Mailbag: The Sip, Swish, Smile Fix for Dry Mouth
“Had dry mouth for a while. Which are the best mouth rinses that don’t taste bad?” – Dry As a Desert Dear Dry, Dry mouth isn’t just annoying. It can also lead to dental problems if left unchecked. I’ll share the name of an effective mouth rinse in just a moment. But before relying on...
Olive Extract Boosts Weight Loss and Blood Sugar Control
On this Labor Day, we’d like to take a moment to honor the hard work and dedication of all workers who contribute to our nation’s strength and prosperity. Forget fad diets and grueling workouts. New research suggests a humble compound found in olives might be the weight loss and blood sugar breakthrough we’ve all been...
Herbal Hero CRUSHES Bad Cholesterol and Blood Sugar
We all know garlic is supposed to keep vampires at bay. But what if I told you this 5,000-year-old pungent bulb could also ward off some real-life health villains? A groundbreaking new study suggests that garlic can be a secret weapon in the fight against high blood sugar and cholesterol. How does this humble herb...
What Your Poop Schedule Says About Your Health
We need to talk about something we ALL do. I’ll admit, it isn’t dinner table conversation, but it IS important. While discussing your bathroom habits might make you blush, new research suggests they could be a crystal ball for your long-term health. A groundbreaking study from the Institute for Systems Biology (ISB) uncovered a vital...
Are Your Senses Sending You an SOS?
As you journey into and through your golden years, you’re bound to notice some changes in how you experience the world. You may have found yourself turning up the volume on the TV more often or holding the newspaper at arm’s length to read it. Well, you’re not alone… but there’s more to these changes...
"Rise and Shine" Energy Hack Transforms Your ENTIRE Day
Imagine an all-natural, entirely free hack that improves sleep quality and has you kickstarting your day with a burst of energy that lasts until bedtime. I know it sounds too good to be true. Heck, if I didn’t know better, I’d be looking for the catch, too. But I assure you, it’s legit. This simple...