Being sad, stressed, mad, or angry is all part of life for some older adults. When their routine becomes like this, they often turn to alcohol, smoking, or binge eating on sweets and junk food, all in an attempt to boost their mood. However, a much healthier solution is eating particular types of food.
Natural Mood-Boosting Foods for Seniors
Leafy, Green Vegetables
Spinach, kale, collard greens, and broccoli are all vegetables rich in vitamin B folate. This vitamin affects the neurotransmitters of elderly adults, which, in response, affects the way they feel – potentially boosting their mood by lowering anxiety and depression.
Fatty Fish
Another food that can boost seniors’ mood is fish – those rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This fat can regulate the chemicals in the brain and increase dopamine levels. Solomon, sardines, or tuna are ideal choices if you need to put your mood on a higher level. Dopamine is often released in the body when you’re doing things you enjoy, such as gardening or spending time with friends.
Source: www.euroweeklynews.com
Grapes
If a senior feels down, eating green or purple grapes can boost their mood. These fruits are excellent antidepressants, because they are rich in antioxidant flavonoids – credited for improving moods. The wonderful thing about grapes is they can be eaten plain, frozen, or in a salad.
Nuts
Cashews, walnuts, almonds, peanuts, pistachios, pecans, or another type of nut are all rich in serotonin, which is a hormone that instantly boosts the mood of any individual. But, unfortunately, nuts are also rich in calories and fat, so they should be consumed in small quantities.
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