SMOOTHIES TO MAKE YOU SMILE

Overindulging on junk food and treats may make you happy at the time but the high is usually short lived and often leaves us feeling bloated, guilty and craving more of the bad stuff. There is a direct link between the food we eat and the way we feel, which is why nutrition is important, not just for our waistline but also our mind. What we eat everyday can impact our mood and help to treat mood disorders such as depression and anxiety. Here are 5 brain-healthy smoothies to help promote a positive mood and put a smile on your face.

Nutty Slender SmoothieAlmonds contains a variety of different nutrients long known to be critical to mental health. Among them are Folate (Vitamin B9) and the amino acid tyrosine, a precursor for a feel-good brain chemical called dopamine. View the recipe here.

Blackberry SmoothieBlueberries and Blackberries are vitamin-rich berries that boost brain health via their high content of antioxidants, specifically flavonoids. Berries have been found to slow memory impairments and motor coordination that are typically associated with ageing.  View the recipe here.

Slender Dark Chocolate ShakeShake off your bad mood with some dark chocolate. Cocao is high in flavanols which has been shown to help alleviate depression and act as an anti-inflammatory. While pure cocoa is best, this may be too bitter for anyone with a sweet tooth, so go for chocolate that is 85% cocoa or more. Basically, the darker the chocolate, the more flavanols it contains, and the better it is for your brain. View the recipe here.

Triple Threat SmoothieLeafy greens such as spinach and kale contain magnesium which can positively impact the levels of the feel good brain-chemical serotonin and thus boost your mood. View the recipe here.

Turmeric Latte SmoothieThe active ingredient in turmeric is curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound that has been shown to be an effective treatment for a variety of mood disorders from depression to anxiety to mood swings. View the recipe here.