Feel Good Foods Guaranteed to Make You Happy

It’s no surprise that we at the San Diego Bay Wine + Food Festival love to eat and drink. What’s not to love? It’s delicious, it brings people together, it satisfies our cravings, and according to science…it actually makes us happier people!

Whether you need a mid-afternoon pick-me-up or an excuse to indulge in your favorite vice, these five foods and drinks are guaranteed to make you happy and boost your overall mood. 

1. Green Tea: Not only does green tea improve your physical health and support weight loss, the EGCG (Epigallocatechin Gallate) found in green tea has been linked to improvements in mood. Green tea is also full of theanine, which is known to lower stress and anxiety, as well as elevate mood. Win, Win, Win.

2. Greek Yogurt: Research shows that probiotic-rich foods and the amount of bacteria in your gut can affect mood and the immune system. Greek yogurt is also high in calcium, which triggers the brain to increase feelings of contentment and well-being. 

3. Red Wine: We all know red wine is good for your heart, but researchers in Spain have also found that the occasional glass of red wine is linked to a reduced risk for depression. Plus, resveratrol found in grapes is an antioxidant proven to boost mood. Cheers to that!

4. Fish: According to science, the more fish we eat, the happier we’ll be. The Omega 3s found in salmon help stabilize mood, decrease depression, and improve memory and focus. The protein in halibut influences your serotonin levels and albacore tuna just so happens to be one of the best mood-boosters on the market.  ​

5. Dark Chocolate: While we don’t need science to tell us chocolate makes people happy, in addition to being delicious, the cocoa found in pure dark chocolate has been linked to instant mood boosts and increased concentration. Not to mention, the magnesium levels in this tasty treat can help reduce anxiety and calm muscles.