In these dark winter months, we may feel a little down. A lack of sunlight, and the vitamin D that goes with it, can affect our mood. December 21, the winter solstice, may be the shortest day of the year, but it’s also the day after which everything begins to get brighter. To welcome the sun, embrace foods that celebrate the triumph of nature—which even in wintertime, offers up a bounty of mood-boosting foods for a winter solstice celebration.
A lack of vitamin D can manifest in symptoms similar to those associated with depression. And in winter’s darkest months, when we don’t have as much opportunity to absorb it from sunlight, we can find vitamin D deliciously in yogurt, egg yolks, mushrooms, and fish.
Other helpful foods include beans and leafy greens which are high in folate, thought to have benefits for those with depression. And tryptophan—found in bananas, turkey, and chocolate—is used by the body to make serotonin, which can influence the mood in a positive way.
Not only are these ingredients mood boosting, they are also delicious—and can be made into warm and comforting meals to ease the cold of winter.
Spicy Poached Eggs with Spinach and Yogurt
Tamari Roasted Kabocha Squash with Ginger and Chili
Warm Escarole Salad with Broiled Radishes, Cranberries, and Almonds
Sockeye Salmon Steamed in Parchment with Juniper, Orange, and Rosemary
