15 Foods That Scientifically Alter Your Mood

Pretty much the only thing we have in common with Christian Grey is a preference for exercising control in all things—that and an appreciation for Edward Ruscha—which is why the idea of using food to change your mood sounds so scientific and Übermensch-y (Überfrauen-y?) and just plain cool.

In the pursuit of self-improvement and, you know, feeling better, we've assembled a list of healthy-ish foods and their emotional effects below. Seek bad-day bonbons elsewhere—though there are definitely times when those work too.

Mashed potatoes

Spuds contain the chemical chromium, which raises the brain's serotonin levels. (Serotonin = happy-making.)

Avocado

Besides being creamy and ridiculously tasty, avocado is a good source of fatigue-reducing folate, aka folic acid.

Almonds

There's a reason why magnesium, which these nuts have in spades, has been used to treat depression for 100 years. The omega-3 essential fatty acids in walnuts will do the trick too.

Watermelon

The answer here is potassium, a mineral that helps keep blood pressure capped. (Bonus: The dietary fiber buys you some alone time in the bathroom, if you know what I mean.)

Oranges

Vitamin C has been proven to help people handle stressful situations, such as math tests and public speaking, better. Their tough skins mean they won't get smushed in your purse either and make everything even worse. Similar options: blueberries, strawberries, pretty much any berry.

Asparagus

Calming Vitamin B will keep you cool enough to plot your next move/revenge.

Kiwis

Weird, right? It's that serotonin again, which has been shown in studies to improve sleep quality and duration. Eat it this way for the maximum benefit.

Cereal

Grains trigger insulin production, which raises your blood sugar naturally. Also try: oatmeal, jasmine rice, whole-grain bread.

(Night) Cheese

Follow Liz Lemon's lead and have a few ounces of cheddar before bed: Calcium helps the brain use the tryptophan found in dairy to manufacture sleep-inducing melatonin.

You should also check out:

11 Seemingly Unhealthy Foods That Aren't So Bad for You

How to Cure Every Food Craving

5 Things You're Doing Wrong With Food