FOOD

FOODS TO IMPROVE YOUR MOOD

Written by: Maree O'Dwyer @NourishingLife_Nutrition

What is going on right now is unprecedented. We are adapting, isolation can have a negative impact on our mood. Food can be the cause, or it can be the cure. So, let us use food to our advantage and fuel ourselves with foods to improve our mood.

The key to improving mood with food is centred around our gut. If our gut is functioning efficiently it has a positive flow on effect to our mood. You may have heard to term ‘gut-brain connection’ it is the concept of the gut and the brain being in constant communication with each other. If one is upset, the other will respond in sympathy in an attempt of comforting the other.
In times of uncertainty and stress we tend to pay a little less attention to the food we are eating and reach for foods that are convenient or avoid eating all together. Every meal we eat is an opportunity to nourish ourselves. Here are a couple foods to start including in your diet that are rich in key mood-boosting nutrients.

Chickpeas 
These little powerhouse legumes are fibre rich which support a healthy gut essential to overall health and wellbeing. They are also a good source of protein supplying the body with essential amino acids that are required for healthy brain function.
Chickpeas go perfectly with wholegrains of any kind to make a well-balanced meal that will keep you incredibly satisfied and full of good vibes.
Salmon 
Wild caught salmon is high in essential fatty acids EPA and DHA which are essential for brain health and the metabolism of glucose which provides the body with energy to function efficiently. EPA has also been shown to assist in the reduction of cortisol which is the hormone responsible for the ‘fight or flight’ response our body experience during high levels of stress.
Bake salmon in the oven for around 10 – 15 minutes and serve alongside a big plate of colourful vegetables. Try to include oily fish in your diet 1 – 2 times per week.

Almonds 
These versatile nuts are an excellent source of magnesium which helps to support the nervous system by relaxing the body and mind. Almonds contain healthy fats that are essential for nervous system function.
A handful of raw almonds is enough to provide you with all the nutritional benefits they possess. Use them to make bliss balls, add to homemade muesli or into your smoothie.
Cacao
As we come out of Easter, we may be feeling a tad guilty for consuming a little more than our recommended intake of chocolate. But rest assured, there are some health benefits attached, so it is not all bad news. Cacao has been shown to decrease levels of the stress hormones and promote relaxation. It also has a role optimising brain health.
Reach for unprocessed cacao to reap the benefits as its much higher in nutrients. Add a tablespoon of cacao powder or cacao nibs to your smoothie or into baking.