We’ve all heard the saying “you are what you eat” but what many of us forget to realise is that this is actually very true. Scientists have been researching how different foods can affect your mood for many years.

There are some foods that can really boost or lower your mood. We are no scientists but here’s our quick fire guide to mood enhancing foods to help keep you feel great.

Mood enhancing foods

B vitamins are said to help enhance your mood. These can be found in foods such as oats, broccoli, seeds, eggs and dairy. B vitamins such as B12 and folate can boost your mood because they encourage your body to produce more serotonin which stabilises your mood.

Omega 3 fatty acids can help combat low moods such as depression. Fatty fish, flaxseeds and walnuts are all foods that contain these omega 3 fatty acids.

Vitamin D (notably found in sunshine) is well known for being a mood booster because it increases your levels of serotonin. Vitamin D can be found in fatty fish, eggs and fortified soy products.

Foods that can cause unstable moods

Research has shown that trans fat foods can link to biological changes that lead to depression. It is possible that trans fat foods cause inflammatory responses in the body that hinder mood enhancing neurotransmitters. Foods that contain trans fat are typically fast foods and pastries.

Refined carbohydrates can affect your blood sugar levels. Blood sugar can peak and crash from refined carbohydrates found in sweets and fizzy drinks. White bread, white pasta and white rice should be limited to prevent a blood sugar rollercoaster.

 

Hopefully you have learned a little something about how food can affect your mood. Our advice is to eat healthily by avoiding too many trans fats and refined carbohydrates. For more information talk to your GP or a nutritionist.

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