Good Moods and Foods

As every woman knows, chocolate is the ultimate mood booster. Or is it really? Research has shown that several foods have different effects on moods and mood stability, and of course. Gistpeeps will give you an insight into what gets you feeling great and what lays you low.

Way back in 2002, the BBC reported on a survey conducted by the Food and Mood Project showed that there were certain items in our diets that affect out mental health and well-being. They were separated in to stressors - foods that were more likely to foster emotions like depression and panic attacks - and supporters - which were more likely to improve moods and mental health and abilities.

- TO BE ALERT
If you feel sluggish, why don't you try a high protein meal? Proteins break down into amino acids. In particular tyrosine, will increase the production of dopamine, norepinephrine and epinephrine. These neurotransmitters booster your energy and your alertness.


- TO RELAX
You are probably aware of the myth people being sleepy after huge turkey meals and because of something called tryptophan; turns out that it just might be true. Tryptophan travels to the brain system and is converted to the neurotransmitter serotonin, essential for sleep and mood regulation with the help of Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Folate and Zinc. Other foods rich in tryptophan include: chicken, beef, brown rice. Vitamin B6, is found in whole grain products. Citrus foods are great for vitamin C and for folates, leafy green like vegetables soup and liver are rich sources. Zinc is found in crab and diary products like milk and cheese.


- AVOID AT ALL COSTS
Some 'stressors' include: sugar, caffeine, alcohol, food addictive and saturated fats.
So go clean out your fridge and cupboards and eat healthy.


- TO BE MORE FRIENDLY
Selenium is the active ingredients in anti dandruff shampoo. It is also in little doses needed to manage moods. Research has shown that a selenium deficiency makes people more hostile, anxious and irritable. It is found in foods like tuna fish, Brazil nuts and swordfish.


- TO AVOID MOOD SWINGS
Sugar spikes in your bloodstream can cause mood and energy roller coasters. You cab avoid the highs and lows associated with fluctuating blood sugar levels by choosing foods that are digested and release their sugars slowly. These food have a low glycemic index (GI) and include wholegrain rye bread, oats and basmati rice. High GI foods, which are best avoided usually have refined flour and include cakes and white rice...

SO WHAT ABOUT CHOCOLATE
Chocolate is not all good or all bad. ' The romantic association we have with chocolate may be due to the effects on the memory of a naturally occurring substance called phenylethylamine (PEA). PEA can enhance endorphin levels, increase libido and act a natural antidepressants. Sugar can also increase levels of the body's natural endorphin's and chocolate bar often contain appreciable amounts of sugar. It is also rich in antioxidant. However because of the high sugar content, it can cause mood swings, and it also has a high fat content.