Summary of Food and Mood: Is There a Connection?:
This article explains how the food you eat can affect your mood, with added sugar being a culprit in causing energy slumps and irritability. Research suggests that reducing added sugar intake can lead to improved overall health, including improved mood. Foods rich in protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats can improve mood, stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce anxiety or depression. Certain nutrients, like omega-3 fats and magnesium found in dark green leafy greens, berries, nuts, fermented foods, spices like turmeric and ginger, and green tea have been shown to positively affect brain function and improve mood. The article also provides low-carb recipes and international cuisine options that can help to boost mood.
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The Link Between Food and Mood: How Your Diet Affects Your Emotional State
Are you feeling moody or low on energy? It could be your diet. Research shows that what you eat can affect your emotional state negatively or positively. In this article, we’ll explore the link between food and mood and provide you with tips on the best diet for optimal mood and energy.
Are Added Sugars the Culprit?
Foods high in added sugar can cause rapid spikes in blood sugar levels, leading to a fleeting burst of energy and then a crash, making you tired and irritable. In addition, studies suggest a link between diets containing high levels of sugar and an increased risk of depression. Reducing added sugar intake can also help support immune function and improve overall health, benefit energy levels, support skin health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as type-2 diabetes, heart disease and certain types of cancers.
The Best Diet for Optimal Mood and Energy
While added sugar may be the culprit when it comes to mood and energy slumps, foods rich in protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats may provide sustained energy and help stabilize blood sugar levels, improving your overall mood and reducing feelings of anxiety or depression. A low carb diet may have a powerful and positive impact on your mood and energy levels.
Low Carb Diet Is Good for Your Mood
Certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fats and magnesium, have been shown to affect brain function and mood regulation positively. Berries are rich in antioxidants, nuts offer a boost of healthy fats and protein. Fermented foods like kombucha, kimchi, and sauerkraut can improve gut health and promote a better mood. Spices like turmeric, saffron, and ginger have been shown to have mood-boosting effects. Tea, especially green tea, has been linked to lower stress levels.
Low Carb Recipes Good for Your Mood
We’ve curated a list of recipes featuring international flavors that have the potential to improve your mood.
Chia Pecan Overnight Oats: Chia is a rich source of magnesium, and pecans boost healthy fats and protein, while oats are a reliable source of whole grains, meaning sustained energy levels to start your day off just right.
Golden Cauliflower Curry Soup: Mood-boosting turmeric is the main ingredient in curry powder, the predominant seasoning in this Indian-inspired soup.
Kimchi Soup: Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish made with salted and fermented nutrient-dense vegetables like cabbage and seasoned with garlic, ginger, and chilies. Kimchi gives this soup a spicy kick, while ground pork and mushrooms turn it into a delicious meal in a bowl worth slurping up.
Lentils with Toasted Pepitas: Toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) are rich in magnesium and give this tasty side dish some crunch, while lentils add whole-grain goodness.
Saffron Shrimp and Quinoa Paella: Paella is a classic Spanish dish featuring saffron, rice, vegetables, and seafood. Here, quinoa is a lower-carb sub for rice.
Sashimi Plate with Pickled Ginger: Raw salmon and tuna are excellent sources of omega-3 fats, which are also linked to improving your mood, as is fresh ginger.
In conclusion, the food you eat can affect your mood and emotional state. Reducing added sugar intake and incorporating a low carb diet with foods rich in protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats can help support your mood and energy levels. Try one of our mood-boosting recipes today and see for yourself!
