4 Scientifically Proven Recipes That Will Make You Happy

We often crave starchy foods when we're feeling "blah," and it turns out that there's a legitimate reason why. Carbohydrates can boost levels of serotonin, which helps regulate mood. While a bowl of white pasta may put an immediate smile on your face, it'll also lead to a quick spike, then a quick drop, in your blood sugar, leaving you low-energy and hungry. Complex carbs, such as lentils, on the other hand, take longer to digest, so you avoid the blood-sugar roller coaster and get sustained energy. Try this bright and filling soup, which combines red lentils with Swiss chard, chickpeas and curry powder.

Get the recipe: Curried Red Lentil and Swiss Chard Soup