When I think about foods that make me happy, two stand out immediately: blueberries and avocados. They might seem like an odd pair at first, but for me, they are the combination of comfort and nutrition. These two little powerhouses not only taste amazing but also play a big role in boosting mood and overall well-being.
Let’s start with blueberries, so tiny and vibrant, yet bursting with sweetness. There is something about popping a handful of them into your mouth that feels like a little celebration. But beyond their taste, blueberries are packed with antioxidants which have groovy powers to reduce inflammation in the brain and improve mental clarity. Wahoo!!! Whenever I am feeling a little foggy or stressed, I grab some blueberries, knowing they are doing more than just satisfying my sweet tooth, they are also helping my brain stay sharp and balanced.
For me, blueberries are the ultimate “pick-me-up” snack. I love throwing them into smoothies or sprinkling them over yogurt in the morning or for a big treat, indulging in a piece of blueberry pie, a savoury sweet I have loved since childhood. If it is super hot out, I will freeze blueberries for a quick, refreshing treat in the afternoon.
And then there is the avocado, the creamy, dreamy fruit that makes everything in life better. Whether it is sliced with a dash of salt and EVOO, blended into a smoothie, or turned into guacamole, avocados always feel like a little indulgence. But what I love most is how nourishing they are.
Avocados are packed with healthy fats that support brain health and reduce the blues. On days when I need a little pick-up, I will make myself avocado toast sprinkled with a little sea salt and chili flakes. There is something so grounding about avocados, almost like a hug in food form.
Avocados are also rich in folate, per my doctor, which helps the body produce those “feel-good” chemicals in our brain. When I am eating avocados regularly, I notice I feel more steady and centered, as though my body and mind are better equipped to handle life’s curveballs.
One of my favorite ways to combine these two happiness-boosting foods is in a smoothie. I blend frozen blueberries, half an avocado, some almond milk, and a little honey or peanut butter for richness. It is the perfect mix that nourishes my soul as much as my body.
What I have learned from including blueberries and avocados in my diet is that happiness is not always about grand gestures or major lifestyle changes. Sometimes, it is the small, simple choices, like picking foods that make you feel good both physically and emotionally.
These two foods are proof that happiness can be found in even the smallest bites, or in a big piece of blueberry pie!
Mindfully curated by Debra Gudema for Well&Co.
📸: Sunkissed Kitchen