What foods make you happy? A hot fudge sundae? A slice of pizza? A fat, juicy burger? Those foods might make you feel better when you are feeling down but they are not the most nutritious options. Did you know some foods really can pick up your spirits? And they are good for you, too. For example, green beans contain magnesium, and researchers have found that those suffering from depression have lower levels of the element. Another high-fiber food is butternut squash, which is high in zinc. Zinc converts trytophan into serotonin, which makes us feel happy.

The right foods can help lower your blood pressure and raise or lower levels of brain chemicals called neurotransmitters, says Judith Wurtman, coauthor of The Serotonin Power Diet. She says, "What you eat can affect your mood and how well your brain works."

Grapefruit, lentils, oranges, parsley, carrots and walnuts also are said to improve moods. And, because they are full of dietary fiber, they have other benefits, including filling you up, so you eat and snack less. Check out this list of "29 Foods that make you happy" from Men's Health magazine.

Steer clear of bacon, doughnuts, high-calorie lunches and too much caffeine or alcohol. These can alter your mood--for the worse. See Redbook's "Happy meals" for foods to add to your menu.

As for chocolate, it really does help you feel better, because of the compounds that enhance endorphin levels. So instead of indulging in a high-calorie, foot-high sundae, treat yourself to a square of dark chocolate.