20 Foods That Can Actually Bring You Happiness

For years, researchers have treated what we eat as a role player in our emotions and science has proven what we put in our mouth affects what comes out of our head. While a greasy plate of fries or sugary snack may temporarily alleviate a bad mood, long-term happiness is rarely doled out at a drive-thru.

In 2018, UCLA researchers reviewed 160 studies about how food affects the brain and determined that a balanced diet, along with exercise, can beat back mental disorders. So, before you dive headfirst into another cheat meal, add these foods that make you happy to your menu.