How can eating plant-based increase your energy and happiness?

Ever feel sluggish after a meal of chicken, beef, or ham? What about an omelet or grilled cheese?

I mean, we can’t stop eating…eating is vital, right? But what if you are eating the wrong foods? For instance…you tell yourself that you will “diet” tomorrow after that plate of animal that you just had… and then you will feel better. But, did you know there is a way to eat delicious food that reduces the heavy feeling and gives energy without giving up taste or breaking the bank? And even better yet, there is a way to eat food that will produce epic energy levels without feeling like you are on a strict diet.

The answer is eating plant-based eating and boom: you have endorphins!

What are endorphins?

Endorphins are groups of hormones released in your brain that make you feel happy. When you feel amazing after exercise, sex, or even after a good laugh, it is because of endorphins. Certain plant-based foods can also release endorphins, creating the perfect scenario for a happy, healthy life, and abundant energy.

What are the best plant-based foods to eat for optimal endorphin release?

Nuts and seeds:

Black walnuts, butternuts, cashews, seeds, and almonds are all known to release serotonin, one of the feel-good endorphins. Add one or all of these seeds to a bowl of fruit in the morning, and you will be ready to start the day with energy.

Spicy foods like plant-based curries:

As a response to spicy, hot food, the body releases serotonin to stabilize your mood. 

Probiotic foods:

Fermented foods are great for the release of endorphins. Kimchi, sauerkraut, tempeh, miso, kombucha, or unsweetened plant-based yogurts are winners if you are a fan of fermented foods.

High vitamin C foods:

You will thrive eating strawberries, oranges, broccoli, red and green peppers, tomatoes, parsley, kale, kiwi, and brussels sprouts. These are only some of the delicious foods available to help you release endorphins and feel amazing.

Dark chocolate:

Yes, you read that correctly: chocolate helps release serotonin and dopamine. Isn’t that the best news ever? Now you know why most people love to eat chocolate. My FAVORITE way to consume chocolate and what I think is the most healthful way to do it is to blend 1-2 TBS raw cacao powder with 2-3 dates and 16oz hot water in the blender to make a magical drink! Otherwise, I suggest eating the darkest chocolate you can manage to find and definitely not milk chocolate.

What are the results of eating plant-based food for endorphin release and epic energy?

1. You will feel lighter. You will notice more energy (endorphins at work) when you eat a healthy, plant-based diet. It takes the body less energy to digest plant-based food versus animal-based products.

2. You will reduce inflammation and lethargy. Eating healthy fruit, vegetables, and plant-based meals naturally reduces inflammation caused by animal-based food. The less inflammation, the more energy you feel.

3. You will feel happier. The more endorphins your brain produces, the more joyful you will feel, and the happier you will be. It’s that simple!

4. You will feel calmer. Have you noticed after exercising that your body feels clean and calm?

5. You will feel the same after eating plant-based food that releases endorphins.

6. You will sleep like a baby. Eating well and regular exercise help regulate your sleep. It all works hand in hand, so make a plan to eat plant-based foods today!

 Eating plant-based will increase your energy and release those good feelings you crave. The foods mentioned above will especially trigger the endorphins that make you happy, content, and calm. And these days, who doesn’t need more of that, right?