The dark days of winter can lead to a dip in serotonin levels making even the most cheerful of us feel down in the dumps. Eating the right mix of nutrients can help boost your mood.Food psychologist Dr Christy Fergusson (pictured) says, 'What most

Short days, long cold nights - what could be better for giving yourself a welcome boost than a winter sun spa break? Think of it as a health essential: sunlight levels increase serotonin, the happiness hormone,  while vitamin D can prevent

can make us feel happier!' says Embarrassing Bodies' Dr Dawn Harper. 'A recent study found that they stimulate the production of the feel-good hormone serotonin. But watch out for carb cravings just before your period.' Fluctuating amounts of oestrogen

-rich oat cakes before bed will help you sleep.6. TINNED PINEAPPLEFeeling down? A low-mood can reduce immunity. Pineapple is packed with an amino acid needs to make the happy hormone serotonin.7. MACKERELRich in omega-3s that help your white blood cells seek

for the synthesis of the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine. ‘Stress depletes vitamin B6, and low levels of this can potentially lead to depression,’ says Patrick Holford, author of Optimum Nutrition For The Mind (Piatkus, £12.99).SWAP crisps FOR popcorn

of tryptophan - an amino acid that our body converts into 'feel-good' serotonin. Throw in a couple of oatcakes, a protein bar or a muffin made with oats to boost your mood through the afternoon and keep your blood sugar levels stable.Thanks to nutritionist, chef

, and make you more good-tempered and easy-going.8. Anxiety Runners generally have a lower level of anxiety than those who don't run. One study suggests that regular training reduces the activity of the serotonin receptors in the brain which regulate mood

SKINResearchers at Taiwan’s Chung Shan Medical University say banana peel contains ingredients that increase levels of the happy hormone serotonin. They suggest you drink the water in which you’ve boiled a banana skin to get the boost. We tried it (boil for 15

SKINResearchers at Taiwan’s Chung Shan Medical University say banana peel contains ingredients that increase levels of the happy hormone serotonin. They suggest you drink the water in which you’ve boiled a banana skin to get the boost. We tried it (boil for 15

. You'll Feel Great Exercising releases a feel-good chemical called serotonin, making it easier for you to cope with the stresses of motherhood, reducing anxiety and the chances of you developing post-natal depression.4. You'll Look Fabulous & Feel