Some Foods Contain Mood-Enhancing Ingredients Similar To Antidepressant Drugs

Some food flavors may have mood-enhancing effects because of ingredients whose chemical composition is similar to valproic acid, a widely used prescription mood-stabilizing drug, U.S. scientists report. Molecules in chocolate, a variety of berries and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids have shown positive effects on mood. Valproic acid – sold under brand names such as Depakene, Depakote and Stavzor – is used to smooth out mood swings of people with manic-depressive disorder and related conditions.