Is There a Connection Between Our Mood and Diet?
The old saying “you are what you eat” is very true when it comes to our mental health. It is possible for unwanted mood swings to be caused by unhealthy eating patterns which then can cause an unhealthy mindset. One of the biggest reasons for this is that unhealthy eating habits and foods lead to blood sugar fluctuations that can heighten feelings of stress. This can lead to wild mood swings and overtime issues like anxiety and depression.
Why Does Diet Impact Our Mood So Greatly?
There are many ways that our diet and mood are connected. On a biological level, our digestive systems are often considered our “second brain.” When we eat food, we are providing our gut with what it needs to produce serotonin and dopamine. Serotonin and dopamine are neurotransmitters that produce positive feelings in our bodies. When we eat unhealthy foods like excess sugar, it creates an unhealthy and dramatic spike of these neurotransmitters. Then when the sugar is digested, that spike turns into a hard crash. This up and down is what causes us to feel tense, stressed, and angry. Furthermore, when we aren’t eating enough, the same type of neurotransmission disruption happens. This can cause us to feel “hangry.”
Eating For A Happier Mood
The good news in all of this is that if we eat a healthy diet, we can improve and regulate our moods. A lot of unhealthy food can boost our mood quickly. That’s why many of us reach for ice cream when we’re having a bad day. However, if we provide our bodies with a robust panel of nutrients we can create a sustained good mood. Nutrients to add to your diet to support a healthier mood include:
● Omega-3 Fatty Acids
● Calcium
● Chromium
● Folate
● Iron
● Zinc
● Magnesium
● B Vitamins
● Vitamin D
● Nootropics
Here are some great food sources containing these nutrients that can help uplift your mood. In general, for a healthy diet that supports your mood and health stick to whole grains, fresh produce, and lean proteins.
Adding these nutrients to your diet will help you prevent mood swings and stress. An excellent source of mood-boosting nootropics is All Phenoms nootropic beverage. We recommend Motivate which contains plenty of B vitamins and nootropics that can help lift your mood.