6 Foods That Can Make You Happier

When life has you down, sometimes a tasty little snack is all you need to cheer up.

There's a few reasons food could brighten your mood. Most things on this list from Time.com that have ingredients that chemically react with your brain to reduce stress levels or just plain make you happy.

Personally,I think it could be because they taste great too!

1.) Probiotic-rich foods

This is science people. Research shows that foods rich in probiotics change your mood through your gut.

What?

Studies have proven that particular kinds of bacteria in your gut can change your mood, or even personality to a certain extent.

So where can you get said probiotics? Well, buying a trusted probiotic supplement is always a great idea. If you're not into taking pills, then yogurt, kimichi, sauerkraut, tempeh, and kefir are just a few different foods that are packed with the stuff.

2.) Fruits and Veggies

No, this is not a message from the farmers of America.

Fruits are great sources for energy, and tend to calm you down when things get a little hectic. They're good for your body and mind. Scientists say this stuff!

It's recommended to make fruits and veggies the core of your meals, and to build around them for the best results.

3.) Coffee

Me and every other coffee drinker already knew this one. A day without coffee is a day without a happy Loren!

Coffee is linked with energy, kindness, and it's known to reduce depression.

Having a cup o' joe with friends also helps form stronger social bonds.

4.) Dark Chocolate

Any kind of chocolate can make this girl happy, because it's delicious and I love it.

But, I guess I should put some real proof in here too.

Dark chocolate, specifically, is a great source of antioxidants, which can lower blood pressure and improve circulation.

Eating an ounce and a half of dark chocolate a day reduces stress levels, and naturally induces a feeling of euphoria.

So you might need to hit the gym more, but you have to eat lots of dark chocolate!

5.) Mushrooms

Believe it, or not, mushrooms are considered a super food. The amounts of selenium in mushrooms help lower anxiety, depression, and fatigue. Apparently, selenium is very similar to antioxidants.

If you have seasonal affective disorder, or aren't getting enough sunlight, mushrooms are the only plant source for vitamin D.

Boom. Your mood is boosted.

6.) Green Tea

The Japanese just get so much right.

Tea is great tasting, and great for you.

A study conducted with 40,000 participants found that people who drank five or more cups of green tea a day had 20% lower stress levels than those who drank one or no cups.

Get brewing and get happy!