January always tends to be a very dreary time of year following the excitement of the festive period.
If you're experiencing a lower mood than usual, you aren't alone - 'Blue Monday' is looming next week on January 16, which is typically known to be the "most depressing" day of the year for many.
To help people beat the blues, dieting expert and author of the Fast 800 Michael Mosley has revealed some foods that work to make you happier when they're included in your diet.
All of these foods feature heavily in the Mediterranean diet, which Michael is a huge advocate of, and they can give you the nutrients you need to stay fuller for longer as well as boosting your mood.
So if you're feeling glum, try these out when cooking your next meal and it may end up making a difference.
Oily fish
The health benefits of oily fish are countless. They're packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which can help to prevent heart disease, as well as protecting your joints.
But these fats can also help to lower levels of depression, and Michael says you should be eating them around three times a week.
Some examples he's suggested are salmon, sardines and mackerel.
Leeks
This winter warmer vegetable is packed with fibre - an essential nutrient for a good mood.
Michael says that other high-fibre foods such as onions, garlic and pulses can hep feed your gut bacteria, which creates "happy hormones".
You can get all of these foods into your diet by making a hearty soup, which will keep you warm as well as improving your happiness.
Fermented foods
They may not sound the most appealing, but Michael suggests "experimenting" with fermented foods in your diet.
An example of this is sauerkraut, which is finely cut raw cabbage fermented in different bacterias, and it originates from Germany.
This will strengthen your happiness-inducing gut bacteria and lead to a better mood.
Dark chocolate
Overindulging in junk food is never the answer when you're feeling low, but dark chocolate actually has plenty of health benefits.
Michael said: "Treat yourself to an occasional square of very dark chocolate, which contains feel-good compounds (flavonoids) linked to improved mood."
Bright colours
It's a well-known fact that eating a wide variety of different coloured fruits and vegetables is the key to a healthy diet.
But it can also improve your mental health, as Michael says they contain a "good mix" of vitamins, antioxidants and plant nutrients that a happy brain requires.
Nuts
These can be enjoyed as a snack or as part of a meal by adding them into things like salads, stews and curries.
Not only are they packed with protein, antioxidants and healthy fats, but Michael says that eating a "moderate amount" can help to lower your risk of depression.
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