We all have days where everything seems to go wrong. Nothing feels good, and nothing seems to improve your mood. Food, however, can be a powerful tool for turning things around. Although instinct might lead you to think of indulgent comfort foods or decadent desserts, the reality is that the foods we often turn to when we're feeling down aren't the ones with the potential to make us feel better. Whether you're interested in foods to eat for happiness in the long term, or quick bites that won't make you feel worse, we asked an expert to share some of the best foods to help battle depression.
While there's no one superfood that can serve as a cure-all for mental health, what you eat matters -- especially as it pertains to energy and mood. If you're feeling down, science says you may actually want to skip the ice cream and pizza. Instead, focus on eating your way to happiness with intention. Here's what you need to know to get started, according to a doctor.
Saurabh Sethi, MD, MPH, is a practicing double board-certified internal medicine and gastroenterology doctor.
Looking for foods to uplift your mood and improve your mental health? Here's some of the best foods to eat for happiness, featuring expert recommendations. As a note, while these foods may help, they should not be used as a replacement for professional mental health care. Make sure to talk to a healthcare professional for any serious concerns or personalized medical advice.
Hajar Larbah is a former PS contributor.