Don’t blame your blah mood on the rain. Winter misery might have more to do with what you put in your mouth. Here are 10 winter foods to boost your mood.

Spinach: Containing folic acid, it helps to protect the brain. Low levels of folic acid can impair concentration

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Oats: Traditionally used to sooth nervous exhaustion and fatigue and jam-packed full of nutrients, oats also help reduce cholesterol, improving blood circulation to the brain.

Ginger: Stimulates circulation and, according to traditional Chinese medicine, keeps the good chi flowing.

Avocado: Rich in potassium, it promotes stamina. A deficiency may cause fatigue and 3 o’clock itis. 

Tomatoes: High in lycopene, an antioxidant necessary for optimum mental functioning and resilience.

Eggs: A source of complete protein and powerhouse of neurotransmitter precursors, an egg is ideal within any meal.

Cashews: High in iron, cashews also contain some tryptophan and the other healthy brain fat –  omega-9.

Beans: You can’t always hunt down wild protein for dinner, so utilise the vegetarian protein of choice, which is crammed full of nutrients, fibre and complex carbs.

Parsley: The sprig that makes everything gourmet is a great mood-boosting addition, packed with B vitamins that promote better memory and mental alertness.

Dark Chocolate: Contains magnesium, tryptophan and anandamide, a chemical produced by our brains when we are happy. It also increases mnotivation!

NEXT: 6 healthy winter soups>>