If you’re snacking, why not feel great doing it? Some snacks will help boost your mood and keep you satisfied. Try one of these ideas if you need a positive pick-me-up. From plant-based chocolate to fruity favorites, you’ll delight in the wholesome goodness.
- Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is so rich and delicious that it tastes like the ultimate treat. This snack is also packed with nutrients and antioxidants to make you happy. According to a recent National Institute of Health study, dark chocolate with a high cocoa content can improve your mood and enhance your gut health.
Along with its boosts to your wellness, the satisfying flavor of chocolate encourages a positive attitude. Wide varieties of dark chocolate are considered plant-based or vegan. When you snack on mood-boosting vegan chocolate bars or a plant-based dark chocolate variety pack, you’ll indulge your cravings without the guilt. For extra inspiration, choose organic premium chocolate. A higher cocoa content offers a delicious taste and makes you smile.
- Trail Mix
Trail mix is a diverse, mood-boosting snack. Many trail mix recipes include seeds and nuts, two foods Harvard Health says can help to keep you full and happy. Nuts are rich in protein; a nutrient thought to help to lessen anxiety. B vitamins boost mood and are in nuts like pecans and peanuts. These nuts are a perfect addition to nearly any snack.
Consider adding nutrient-rich sunflower or chia seeds when making your trail mix. Besides being tasty, they’re packed with mood boosters like protein and vitamin B. Combine your nuts or seeds with dark chocolate or berries for a simple, rewarding snack.
Raisins or cranberries make sweet and tart companions for your favorite nuts or seeds. For savory fans, adding seasonings like garlic or cayenne pepper is easy. Finally, consider adding flavors like coconut or ginger to your mix for even more depth of flavor.
- Bananas
Bananas are one of the best portable whole foods. They’re easy to carry and taste delicious right out of the peel. According to VeryWell Mind, they also contain naturally occurring, brain-boosting chemicals and vitamins like serotonin and vitamin B6.
When you eat a banana, you help these nutrients work together in the body. You’ll also help to ward off hunger pangs, which will keep you feeling positive. Add it to your smoothie or fruit bowl for a complete and satisfying snack.
- Cereal
A bowl of cereal invites a simple, happy moment. With so many topping combinations and flavors, you’ll find something to boost your mood and help you power through the day. If you’re into hot cereal, make yourself a bowl of homemade oatmeal. Add-ons like fruit and nuts will give flavor and personality to your bowl.
Ingredients such as honey or oat milk will help you feel relaxed and cozy. Take a look at oat nutrition and you’ll be incredibly impressed. Incredible oats contain B vitamins and other essential nutrients to keep you full and cheerful.
For those who prefer cold cereal, you’re also in luck. Many store-bought kinds of cereal are fortified with vitamin D, a nutrient shown in a recent study published by National Library of Medicine to help with symptoms of depression. Vitamin D can also help to boost serotonin levels in the brain. Cold cereal can be a fun and inviting snack for any time of day. Top it with plant-based milk fortified with vitamin D to keep boosting your mood.
- Avocados
Avocados are one of those snacks that fill you like a meal. Enjoy guacamole or avocado toast to tide you over until dinner. It’s fun to include avocados in smoothies and salads. Avocados make grain bowls and sandwiches more interesting. You can even slice them up and season them with your favorite spices.
Research avocado nutrition, and you’ll find they’re rich in good fats. They help to support brain health along with vitamin C and B vitamins. While you’ll love their taste, you’ll also feel like you’re making a positive choice for your next snack.
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- Smoothies
Smoothies will instantly lift your spirits because they taste like a treat. Take them anywhere and snack on them any time of day. While they’re sweet and satisfying, they’re also rich in vitamins. The best smoothies include a combination of fruit and vegetables to pack the most nutrients.
There are plenty of ways to create your new favorite smoothie. First, think about the flavors and ingredients that lift your spirits. Some of the best fruit for smoothies include bananas and red berries. You could go tropical with a pineapple or mango smoothie. If you’re looking for classic fruit flavor, peaches or blueberries combine well with protein and healthy fats to keep you full and happy.
When you’re ready to add vegetables, leafy greens like kale and spinach mix well with fruit. Or include avocado or beets. Carrots and cucumber will make your snack more fun and refreshing. Make your smoothie next level with oat milk or chia seeds. Other delicious additions include almond milk or coconut flakes.
Boosting Your Mood with Healthy Snacks
The best snacks make you feel good inside and out. There are so many healthy and wholesome options out there that you can find something that tastes great and helps you stay energized and positive. Plant-based snacks are an excellent way to fuel your day with more vitamins and nutrients.
Find something delicious that makes you feel more inspired about your day. It doesn’t matter if you’re a dark chocolate lover or prefer a spicy, savory trail mix. The most important thing about your mood-boosting snacks is that they delight you while you’re eating them while helping enhance your wellness.
