Foods to Boost Your Mood

Though their findings are debated, several studies show that a lack of certain vitamins and minerals may put you at risk for depression. Try these 10 nutrient-rich meals that taste as good as they make you feel.

Salmon Salad With Vinaigrette

Studies show that omega-3 fatty acids may have therapeutic benefits in depressed children. And this savory salmon dish contains 6 grams of this monounsaturated fat.

Ingredients: Green beans, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, extra virgin olive oil, minced shallots, salmon fillets, mixed salad greens, Vidalia onion, eggs

Calories: 271

Try this recipe: Salmon Salad With Vinaigrette

Eating a carbohydrate-rich meal may increase levels of serotonin, one of the chemicals in our body responsible for elevating mood. This spicy dish will wow your taste buds and pack in some omega-3s too.

Ingredients: Farfalle, large shrimp, cumin, olive oil, onion, thyme, cinnamon, orange juice, sherry vinegar, tomatoes, pimiento-stuffed olives

Calories: 417

Try this recipe: Spanish Shrimp and Farfalle

This wrap combines delicious Middle Eastern flavors, vitamin B6, and omega-3 fatty acids to create a delicious, bad mood–blasting meal.

Ingredients: Flaxseed, chickpeas, garlic, parsley, lemons, cumin, coriander, red pepper, breadcrumbs, eggs, olive oil, pitas, lettuce, fat-free yogurt, tomatoes, cucumber, green onions, cilantro, jalapeño pepper

Calories: 507

Try this recipe: Flaxseed Falafel Sandwich

Though chocolate can ease a sweet tooth, research has shown it is more likely to prolong a bad mood than ease it. However, this dessert, which combines wholesome whole-wheat flour, flaxseed, and antioxidant-rich chocolate, is a healthy way to indulge.

Ingredients: Whole-wheat flour, flaxseed, baking soda, granulated sugar, dark brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, dark chocolate chips, unsalted almonds

Calories: 94

Try this recipe: Deep Dark Chocolate Biscotti

This hot and spicy dish is full of protein, fiber, and nearly 25% of your daily folate needs. Folate is important for mood, because low levels of this vitamin have been associated with increased rates of depression.

Ingredients: Olive oil, carrots, onion, ginger, garlic, curry powder, chicken broth, lentils, diced tomatoes

Calories: 253

Try this recipe: Gingery Lentil Soup

Tangy and fresh, you'll love this simple salad. And you'll get vitamin B6 and omega-3 fatty acids, two important foods that may help regulate your mood.

Ingredients: Chickpeas, garlic, stalk, celery, flat-leaf parsley, lemons, olive oil, sea scallops, baby spinach

Calories: 170

Try this recipe: Grilled Scallops With Lemon-Chickpea Salad

This bean salad contains selenium, a micro-mineral that protects against free-radical damage and lowers inflammation. A small study even found that high amounts of selenium helped patients with mild-to-moderate depression.

Ingredients: Green onions, green bell peppers, red bell peppers, garbanzo beans, kidney beans, black beans, red wine vinegar, olive oil, lemon juice

Calories: 128

Try this recipe: Triple Bean Salad

Start the day off right with this savory, modified take on eggs Florentine. Eggs are one of the few foods that contain vitamin D, which may better your mood.

Ingredients: Eggs, white vinegar, asparagus spears, olive oil, garlic, butter, lemon juice, parsley, Parmesan cheese

Calories: 256

Try this recipe: Asparagus With Poached Egg and Parmesan

This light and refreshing smoothie contains antioxidant-rich berries and banana, plus vitamin B12–rich yogurt. It's a sunny way to start your day.

Ingredients: Banana, light coconut milk, low-fat yogurt, lemons, honey, blackberries

Calories: 250

Try this recipe: Blackberry Banana Slim-Down Smoothie

This light, protein-rich appetizer combines spicy chicken with tangy sauce. Protein-rich foods keep you alert and energized, which is especially important for those with depression.

Ingredients: Honey mustard, reduced-fat sour cream, low-fat yogurt, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, chili powder, cayenne pepper, chicken breasts

Calories: 210

Try this recipe: Yogurt and Spice Grilled Chicken Skewers