What Optimists Eat for Breakfast

Eating more fruits and vegetables makes people feel calmer, happier and more energetic, found researchers in New Zealand. They recommend 7 to 8 combined servings of fruits and vegetables every day to get the mood-boosting benefits, which is a tall order for American adults, who only consume fruit about 1.1 times per day and vegetables about 1.6 times per day. An optimist wouldn't let that news discourage her, nor would she claim to be the exception to the rule. "Optimists are very honest when assessing their problems or shortcomings," says Karen Reivich, PhD, director of training programs for the Penn Positive Psychology Center, at the University of Pennsylvania, and the author of The Resilience Factor. "But instead of feeling bad about themselves, they look for ways to improve."

Try: An a.m. salad bowl. It’ll help you reach that lofty 7 to 8 servings-per-day goal and leave you feeling satisfied but not stuffed, says David Bez, author of the new book Breakfast Love. One of his favorite combinations: green beans, sliced red bell pepper, barley and walnuts, topped with sliced Manchego cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.