mood food

Welcome back to Sunday Goods! I'm so happy you're here!

I’ve learned the hard way that what you eat doesn’t just affect your body—it affects your mind too. When I started being more intentional about my meals, I noticed a huge difference in how I felt mentally: less fog, more focus, less spiraling, & more calm.

So this week, I wanted to share some of the foods I keep in my rotation that support my mental health, naturally.

1. Fatty Fish (like salmon)

I don’t eat it every day, but when I do—I feel it. The omega-3s in fish are known to boost brain function and even reduce symptoms of depression.

If fish isn’t your thing, an algae supplement works too.

2. Berries (especially blueberries)

They’re like little stress-fighting powerhouses. Full of antioxidants that help protect the brain and support a better mood.

I’ll throw them in smoothies or just snack on them frozen.

3. Leafy Greens (spinach, kale, etc.)

I used to skip these… now I sneak them in wherever I can—omelets, smoothies, bowls. They’re packed with folate and magnesium, which are both key for keeping your nervous system chill.

4. Fermented Foods (kimchi or kombucha)

I know it sounds weird, but gut health and mental health are super connected. I try to add some probiotics to my day—it really does help with mood and digestion.

5. Avocados

Besides being delicious on toast, they’re full of healthy fats and B vitamins. Good for your brain, your skin, your mood… you really can’t go wrong.

6. Dark Chocolate

This one feels like cheating, but it’s not. A little square of 70%+ dark chocolate can legit boost endorphins and serotonin.

Just don’t go overboard (I say to myself every time).

7. Nuts & Seeds (chia, flax, walnuts, pumpkin seeds)

I sprinkle them on everything. Oatmeal, smoothies, salads—you name it. They’re packed with magnesium and healthy fats that help with stress and focus.

8. Turmeric

This one’s new for me. I’ll add a little turmeric + black pepper to roasted veggies or ill make shots of it with some ginger. It’s amazing for inflammation and brain fog.

9. Bananas

Cheap. Easy. Mood-boosting. They help your body make serotonin naturally. I always have a few on hand (and a few in the freezer for smoothies).

10. Eggs

Simple but powerful. Full of choline and B vitamins—eggs are basically little mental health MVPs.

Taking care of your mental health isn’t just journaling or therapy (although I love both). Sometimes, it’s as simple as what’s on your plate.

If you’re feeling off, try checking in with your meals.

Small shifts really can make a big difference. & you deserve to feel good.

with care,

elle