HOW FOOD AFFECTS YOUR MOOD

One of the oldest sayings is that, ‘we are what we eat’. And this is especially true for how food can affect the way we think and act. Ask anyone who has recently changed their diet, and a common factor is that they feel differently. It might be a reduction in sugar or caffeine, and they feel a little on edge as they go through withdrawal symptoms, but for the most part these dissipate after a few days. But, is there any actual science behind this or is it purely how they are feeling?

CHANGES TO YOUR DIET

Unfortunately, many people are not eating the best food available and as such are often left feeling deflated. But, if that is what they normally eat, then feeling that way is normal for them. Only through making positive changes in a diet can the effect of mood changes become apparent.

The reverse is also true. But most people do not go from eating healthier foods, to an unhealthy diet quickly, rather it is a slow progression. But, when a person makes positive dietary changes, they do it too quickly, and the changes are more noticeable. This can leave them feeling unusual, and ‘not right’. While this is a normal thing to happen, it can feel very unusual and lead to a relapse in their diet.

 THE FOOD EQUALS YOUR MOODS

We’ve all been there, feeling a bit shady and hitting the burger bar to get that fix. Unhealthy food has a place in our society, and it isn’t going anywhere. But, it’s not necessarily the ‘big bad’ that everyone makes it out to be - unless that is all you eat. When consumed in moderation a bit of comfort or convenience food can hit the spot. However, be aware of having the sugar high, with the crash hitting hard later.

Studies have been conducted on food and our diets for many years. In most cases it was found that eating a varied and well-balanced diet is primary for maintaining our moods. Eat too much of one thing and it can leave us feeling flat and depressed, and other associated feelings (e.g., anxiety and stress).

FOODS THAT LOWER YOUR MOOD

The modern ‘Western Diet’, which mainly consists of highly processed and convenience foods, can make you feel good for a short time. But you’ll often crash after a few hours and start to feel a bit seedy. Foods high in sugar and salt can appear to help momentarily with feelings of depression and anxiety. However, in the end they do more damage than good, and can make you feel consistently worse; then the cycle repeats.

FOODS THAT INCREASE YOUR MOOD

When looking for a diet that will help with your mood you can look to the countries that consistently have a happier population. Many of these locations have a high consumption of fish, low fat meats, and assorted fruits and vegetables.

Being dehydrated can affect your mood negatively. As people in general have a low thirst reflex, sometimes we need to remind ourselves to drink water. Drinking more water leads to feelings of alertness and allows us to be more productive.

MAKE A POSITIVE CHANGE FOR GOOD MOODS

If you’re feeling like you need a change in your life, perhaps what you are eating is not the best for your body and moods. Examine what changes you can make and develop new eating habits. Small changes can go a long way, try starting by eating a breakfast of a quality cereal and fresh milk. This adjustment could give you the mood lift you need to start feeling better about life in general.