Improve your mood with 11 tasty foods

It's time to ditch the excessive supplements and energy drinks and start using natural foods to increase energy and elevate mood. It doesn't take much, and you'll be feeling better and have more energy to take on your next project. Kick-start your day with these 11 mood-lifting foods:

1. Milk
2. Chocolate
3. Whole grain rice or pasta
4. Mackerel
5. Broccoli
6. Coffee
7. Turkey
8. Liver
9. Blueberries
10. Brazil nuts
11. Any food that tastes good

Check out the full article for details on these foods and reasons why they are each beneficial. Add some of these to your daily diet and you'll immediately notice an improvement. These incredible stress busters will have the added benefit of tasting great. After the break I'll point you to some meal ideas that easily include these 11 mood lifting foods into your diet.

1. Milk
   So, you're not a fan of milk. You're not alone. Some easily down 3 glasses a day, but others need a little coaxing. The simplest way (and a great way to get the suggested chocolate) is to turn your plain while milk into smooth rich chocolate milk. Another suggestion is pairing it with whole grain cereal.
2. Chocolate
   Boost your happy hormones with a bite or two or dark chocolate. Keep a bar in the fridge and allow yourself a little late afternoon pick-me-up. You'll feel like you're sneaking a treat, but you'll also get the benefits of this natural stimulant.
3. Whole grain rice or pasta
   This whole grain pasta with wild mushrooms sounds like a delicious way to get your whole grains. Look for interesting hardy recipes, especially if you're feeding a family who might not be used to whole grain products. Try this healthy macaroni and cheese. It is a terrific way to get your children interested in whole grain foods.
4. Mackerel
   So, you've decided that tonight you're going to try serving mackerel, but you have no idea where to start. This spiced mackerel takes less than 30 min to prepare and will give you exceptional flavor along with fatty acids for brain food.
5. Broccoli
   You probably know a handful of ways that broccoli is done in your house. Check out a few more and mix it up a bit. Broccoli soup is a favorite at my house. You could also try it steamed with lemon zest, or in a leftover casserole.
6. Coffee
   You know how you like it. Enjoy, but take it easy.
7. Turkey
   These smoked turkey tortilla wraps sound great. Turkey sandwich meet is a great way to get this healthy meat when you're in a hurry. Just be careful not to fall asleep at your desk after eating your sandwich!
8. Liver
   Liver. What to say about liver? This is a tough one to sell, but the benefits are convincing. Swiss style liver and onions sound like a great way to enjoy this meat.
9. Blueberries
   There not around much longer, so get them while you still can and stock up your freezer for the coming months. Blueberries are great on top of cereal, in pies or in smoothies. Sprinkle a few on your salad and your brain will thank you for this quick stress buster.
10. Brazil nuts
    Brazil nuts, or any nut really makes a great snack it you're on the go. Store a baggie of nuts in your glove box and you'll have them handy when you need a boost.
11. Any food that tastes good
    Finally, make good food choices, enjoy what you eat and you'll be fine. Sticking with natural mood-boosting foods will go a long way toward better health and happier living.

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