From The Straits Times    |

5 healthy foods to eat that can make you happy

Snack on cherry tomatoes and more of these mood-uplifting foods for a happier, healthier you. Image: Getty Images

1. BEETROOT
It contains magnesium, which is great for calming and controlling blood pressure. It also helps curb depression and prevent mood swings by balancing out your sugar levels. Have it twice a week in salads or as a juice.

2. TOMATOES
They help your body produce mood-enhancing chemicals, like serotonin and dopamine, which help to make you feel happier. Snack on cherry tomatoes or have roma tomatoes with your salad a few times a week. If you have them three times a week, eat at least ¾ of a cup each time. Have about ⅓ of a cup each time if you eat them daily.

3. RED CHILLIES
They contain the chemical capsaicin, which releases endorphins that have a calming and happy effect on you. Eat two to three a week.

4. SOY MILK
It stimulates serotonin production, thus regulating your mood and increasing your quality of sleep. Drink one glass of soy milk every night.

5. FATTY FISH
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it helps to relieve anxiety depression. Eat 100g as herring, salmon or mackerel three times a week.

EXPERT SOURCES: JACLYN REUTENS, CLINICAL DIETITIAN AT APTIMA NUTRITION & SPORTS CONSULTANTS, AND WWW.APTIMA-NSC.COM AND WWW.LIVESTRONG.COM

This story was originally published in Her World Fit & Fab 2013.

Coach ID Lanyard
Now $75
Original price: $168
Shop Now
Jabra Elite 4 Wireless Earbuds
Now $88
Original price: $162
Shop Now
BaByliss Air Pro 2300
Now $63
Original price: $144
Shop Now
Abib Collagen Eye Patch
Now $19
Original price: $35
Shop Now