SWEET BITES THAT BRIGHTEN YOUR DAY FOOD FOR THOUGHT (AND FEELINGS)
Do you ever get “hangry” when you miss a meal or feel like a warm bowl of something delicious would elevate your entire day? It turns out that food does more than just soothe a growling tummy; it can lift your spirits. Certain healthy foods contain natural mood boosters like dopamine, serotonin, and GABA, which can chase away stress in the most tasty way. Get ready to load your plate with feel-good ingredients that fuel the body and mind. You’re one delicious bite away from feeling calmer, more focused, and happier.
in the intestines, which studies have found can reduce negative emotions. Just be sure to eat it in moderation because it’s a high-calorie food. Fermented Foods A happy gut means a happy life, and fermented foods like kimchi, yogurt, and sauerkraut are excellent sources of good probiotics. Fermentation creates live microorganisms that ensure you have the right amount of healthy bacteria in your digestive system. They can also increase serotonin levels. Researchers are increasingly finding that the gut microbiome plays a significant role in regulating depression and overall wellness. Berries Eating more fruits and veggies has long been linked to lower rates of depression, thanks to their inflammation-fighting antioxidants. Berries, in particular, are a sweet option for snacking your way to joy. These powerful little fruits have many compounds known to combat stress. Blackberries, for example, are high in vitamin C, which can help lower anxiety, and fiber, which helps keep your energy levels up.
Dark Chocolate If you have a sweet tooth, here’s your
excuse to treat yourself to chocolate. Dark chocolate contains mood-elevating compounds like polyphenols, vitamins, and flavonoids. Its antioxidant properties are known to reduce stress and keep your cells healthy. Dark chocolate also supports the critical connection between gut health and mental health, changing the bacterial composition
So, next time you’re feeling stressed, reach for a snack that feeds your mood. Whether it’s a square of dark chocolate, a spoonful of yogurt, or a handful of berries, these foods prove happiness is just a meal away.
LAUGH THERAPY
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INGREDIENTS • 1 1/2 cup gluten-free flour • 2 tbsp cornstarch • 1 tbsp baking powder • 1 tsp salt
Sauce • 1/2 cup maple syrup • 6 tbsp soy sauce • 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp garlic powder • 1/4 tsp black pepper • 1 3/4 cups cold seltzer water • 2 medium heads of cauliflower, cut into florets • Cooking spray or oil
• 5 tbsp gochujang • 2 tbsp rice vinegar • 1 tbsp sesame oil • 2 tbsp cornstarch • Chopped green onion, sesame seeds, and lime (for garnish)
DIRECTIONS 1. Whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, salt, garlic powder, and pepper. Stir in seltzer until thick.
2. Coat cauliflower in batter and spray or brush with oil. 3. Air fry at 400 F for 15–17 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. In a blender, add sauce ingredients (except cornstarch) and blend until smooth. 5. Take out 1/4 cup of sauce and mix with cornstarch until clumps are gone. 6. Into a pan on medium-low, pour remaining sauce. Add cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened. 7. Toss cooked cauliflower with sauce, garnish, and serve. 3 (858) 675-1133 Inspired by TYBerryMuch.com
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