Good nutrition affects both our health and our mood. I’ve been experimenting with my menu planning in attempts to maximize my energy and I’ve done some research that I think y’all might benefit from:
Serotonin — the chemical in our brains that makes us relaxed — is released when we eat simple carbohydrates like chocolate, potatoes, bread and pastries. But some of the chemical preservatives can make the serotonin release process act just a bit differently. For instance, while really high quality dark chocolate interacts just like it’s supposed to with serotonin, the sort of chocolate found on sale and has a list of ingredients you can’t pronounce doesn’t release nearly as much serotonin into your brain.
Noradrenalin, in low quantities, is a mood elevator. It gives a short burst of energy and improves our performance. Phenylalanine, which is found in coffee and soft drinks, can set off the release of noradrenalin. But lots of phenylalanine (and therefore lots of noradrenalin) can raise your blood pressure and make you more aggressive.
Small amounts of selenium can be a great way to elevate your mood. But doctors don’t recommend running out and chowing down on a selenium rock. Instead, trace amounts of selenium are found in seafood and seaweed. Other sources of the mineral include sunflower seeds and Brazil nuts.
So, I can justify my morning cup of coffee, good chocolate and going out for sushi: it’s all for making sure that I’m in a good mood. Moderation is, of course, important, but it’s nice to know that things I like really are good for me.
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Write a Comment»Good thing that I like seeds, nuts and seaweeds.