Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in almost every type of human behavior including mood and appetite. Elevated levels of this compound are associated with less anxiety and depression.
More: 9 Mood-Boosting Foods
Find it in these foods: omega-3 fatty acid-rich foods (fish such as salmon, snapper, scallops, shrimp and halibut), flaxseeds, walnuts, soybeans, winter squash, raw tofu, whole grains (breads, pasta, brown rice, bulgur, couscous, quinoa), sweet potatoes, vitamin B6-rich foods (oatmeal, gourds, spinach, peppers, jalapeno, Serrano peppers, cabbage). Note: Alcohol and excessive caffeine interfere with serotonin production.
Dopamin is another neurotransmitter that helps to regulate mood and personality. Help to keep stress at bay by increasing levels of this compound.
Find it in these foods: folate-rich foods (spinach, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, asparagus, turnip greens and okra) and those high in tyrosine (blueberries, spirulina, animal proteins, cheese, yogurt, milk, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, almonds, peanuts, legumes and tofu).
More: Ginger-Curry Roasted Vegetables and Tofu
In Sum
Take a proactive stance with your nutrition by consuming a wide variety of the foods listed above. By doing so, you can actually help to decrease your stress levels during the holidays and throughout the year. With this ultra-healthy diet, you'll also receive the added benefits of a tough-as-nails immune system.
More: 9 Foods That First Up the Immune System
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