Food and Mood

Did you know that food can affect your mood?

If you are really stressed or are having trouble relaxing, you may need more serotonin- a neurotransmitter that helps you feel calm, content and perhaps sleepy. The best way to increase the level of serotonin in your brain is to eat carbohydrates, such as a piece of whole grain toast with jam, some organic popcorn or herbal tea with a tablespoon of honey. It takes about 30 minutes to feel the effects of increased serotonin, so be patient.

There is a theory that some people who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder, in the dreary winter months, may be lacking serotonin. Adding some healthy carbohydrates (without protein or fat) may help improve mood. Of course, unhealthy carbohydrates like cake and cookies can do the same thing, but they also spike your blood sugar and then cause it to quickly drop, leading to fatigue and sugar cravings.

If you want to feel more alert and focused, it's better to eat protein, with or without some carbohydrates. Examples include chicken with vegetables, beef stir fry with veggies, protein smoothie or apple slices with nut butter. This allows the proper amino acids to get to your brain to create neurotransmitters that lead to mental alertness.

So if you're having a bad day or need some extra help staying awake through a business meeting, try using healthy food choices to improve your mood or get focused!