completing her culinary training at Le Cordon Bleu, Khun Anotai Gongvatana fulfilled her dream of returning home
to Thailand and opening Anotai, her very own health food restaurant. An immediate success with Bangkok trendsetters for its innovative and health-conscious cuisine, Anotai boasts an in-house bakery, an extensive selection of herbal teas, and even a separate floor devoted to yoga instruction. Recently, Khun Anotai also started her own organic produce farm in Ratchburi to ensure that every ingredient brought to the table is of the freshest possible quality.

Pai-kin-khao recently asked Khun Anotai to shed light on how food affects how we feel. Afterall, we are what we eat.

Here are her top 10 Foods for Moods.

1 | Water :
Covers 70% of the Earth and still most people don't get enough. Water helps dissolve and transport vitamins and minerals to the cels in our body. Low fluid intake causes dehydration and fatigue. Drink
at least 6-8 glasses a day.

2 | Brown Rice :
Beats white rice as a complex carbohydrate-rich food. Our body needs carbs for the production of the amino acid tryptophan which in turn tells our brain to produce serotonin, a 'calm down' chemical that regulates mood. Besides brown rice, unrefined noodles and pasta are also a good alternative.

3 | Spinach :
A rich source of folic acid which helps prevent depression and fatigue. Any kind of leafy green vegetables and beans will provide the same benefits. Try mixing two folic acid-rich foods such as spinach and potatoes. Yum!

4 | Tofu :
Especially necessary for women as an iron-rich food and a source of phytoestrogen, a plant compound that acts very much like women's natural hormones. Both are beneficial for women during menopause to relieve hot flashes and fatigue. A bowl of miso soup with cubed tofu is irresistible.

5 | Potatoes :
Potatoes contain a bit of everything. Most importantly, it is a potassium-rich food and a good source of vitamin B6 which helps to balance the chemicals in our brain and improve our mood. Try a medium-sized baked potato with a tablespoon of sour cream on top.

6 | Fish :
Fish contains the mineral selenium which helps raise our mood when we're feeling down. Fish oil, a source of necessary unsaturated fats, boosts serotonin levels helping to prevent depression. For vegetarians, whole-grain cereals and breads are a good alternative source of selenium.

7 | Prunes :
Prunes are extremely high in fiber, helping to ensure that our digestive system remains on track. 5 prunes a day is plenty to keep bowel movement regular.

8 | Bananas :
One of nature's best sources of potassium. Potassium-rich foods help prevent high blood pressure, strokes, and heart attacks. Bananas are also a good source of vitamin B6. Eat them fresh to receive the most benefit.

9 | Yoghurt :
Yoghurt contains bacteria which helps strengthen our immune system. It's also a superior source of calcium which regulates brain chemicals and hormones affecting our mood. A cup of yoghurt with whole-grain cereal and fresh fruit is a power breakfast that will keep you active until noon.

10 | Mint tea :
After a long day at work or a sleepless night, crush
a few leaves of mint and mix with hot water. Steep for five minutes. The essential oils and aroma will ease your tension and boost energy. Drink it iced too.