When life gives you lemons, eat vegetables: How vegetables are natural mood boosters

By: Chevelle Chiong 

Consuming vegetables comes with a plethora of health benefits. A study by the Baker Heart and Diabetes Institute found that people who ate at least 470 grams of fruit and vegetables daily had 10 % lower stress levels than those who consumed less than 230 grams. (Windell, n.d.) However, did you know that vegetables can boost our mood? 

Why does consuming vegetables improve our mood? 

Vitamins such as folate (B9), B6, and vitamin D, found in vegetables, play a role in mood regulation by influencing the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which are crucial for regulating mood and overall brain function. (Seitz, 2024) 

Which vegetables are the best at improving our mood? 

● Spinach is packed with magnesium, which reduces stress and aids in the production of serotonin. 

● Bell Peppers: rich in vitamin C, which helps to relieve stress and supports a healthy immune system, keeping us healthy during a stressful period, such as examinations and work. 

● Broccoli: high in folate, which supports mood regulation and stress relief (Misfit Market Blog, 2025). 

Bibliography 

● Windell, J. (n.d.). Lower your stress with more fruits and veggies? Michigan Psychological Association. 

https://www.michiganpsychologicalassociation.org/index.php?option=com_dailyplane tblog&view=entry&year=2021&month=05&day=23&id=97:lower-your-stress-with-mor e-fruits-and-veggies 

● Misfit Market Blog. (2025, January 17). Brighten your day: The best mood-boosting fruits and veggies. 

https://blog.misfitsmarket.com/mood-boosting-fruits-and-vegetables/ 

● Seitz, A. (2024, November 14). 9 healthy foods that lift your mood. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/mood-food#beans-and-lentils