If you ever get the feeling that you have so much to do and not enough time to do it, don’t worry – we do too. Though if there’s one thing we can always make time for, it’s food, so we went in search of dishes that are guaranteed to put a smile on our face and a spring in our step.
In fact, some of these dishes contain ingredients that are better for you than you think and are scientifically proven to have a positive effect on your mood. Even after the toughest day at work, indulging in some of these will hopefully raise your spirits with their yummy goodness.
Oysters from Or Luak (oyster omelette)
If you feel like you’ve lost your mojo, protein-packed oysters will certainly get you back on track. According to WebMD, “oysters contain all 9 essential amino acids; they’re rich in protein minerals and omega-3 fatty acids. All these things will keep you strong – and keep your immune system charged.” In fact, this website also states that “some researchers have determined that societies that don’t eat enough omega-3 fatty acids may have higher rates of major depressive disorder than societies that get ample omega-3 fatty acids.”
There’s no better way to eat them than having it in our famous Singapore Or Luak or oyster omelette. The combination of plump, juicy oysters coated with a layer of crispy egg makes a perfect match, whilst the refreshing fizzy bubbles from a can of ice-cold Coke light® is the perfect accompaniment to one of our ultimate comfort foods to alleviate your mood as well.
Rice/carbs from Nasi Lemak
I knew there had to be some logic behind my happy addiction to rice/carbohydrates, it transpires there is a reason and it’s scientific logic no less. This website tells us that “when you eat a carbohydrate-rich meal, your body triggers a release of insulin. This… causes any amino acids in the blood to be absorbed into the body, but not the brain.
Except for, you guessed it – tryptophan! It remains in the bloodstream at high levels following a carbohydrate meal, which means it can freely enter the brain and cause serotonin levels to rise.”
For the uninitiated, serotonin is “a chemical produced by the body that enables brain cells and other nervous systems cells to communicate with one another. Too little serotonin in the brain is thought to play a role in depression”.
Why not start your day on a positive note by treating yourself to a serving of Nasi Lemak. This carb laden rice dish always has me beaming from ear to ear in no time and ensures I start as I mean to go on – in a good mood.
Garlic from Bak Kut Teh
An essential ingredient in this punchy ‘meat bone tea’ is the humble garlic. It may be small in size but this little guy packs a punch. A study shows that “red blood cells process compounds from digested garlic and turn them into the cell messenger hydrogen sulphide (H2S), which relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow. Therefore, eating garlic may increase our natural supply of this vital chemical and play a role in reducing the risk of heart disease.”
So ignore the inevitable smelly breath, this flavourful hot broth paired with an ice-cold can of Coke light can just help restore the smile to your face. In addition, have you heard that it is believed mosquitoes have an aversion to garlic? Living in Singapore, what better excuse do you need to indulge in yet another bowl of Bak Kut Teh?
If you’re anything like me, there is nothing more certain to brighten my mood than a good feed. Next time you’re feeling particularly stressed or rushed for time, don’t forget to take a few minutes out of your day to sit down, relax and enjoy one of your favourite meals along with a can of Coke® for an instant lift in spirits.
This article is brought to you in partnership with Coca-Cola®. All opinions shared by writer are his/her own.
