ARE YOU STRESSED ?

Cranky , irritable , stressed or anxious ? Munch on these foods to lift your mood!

Did you know that the foods to we eat can influence our mood ? This is because certain foods stimulate production of mood elevating hormones like serotonin, endorphin, dopamine and other neurotransmitters. The next time you are down in the dumps, try these foods to feel better:

The next time you’re feeling low, treat yourself to some chocolate. This sweet stuff boots endorphin levels, the brain’s natural happy hormones. So eat  ‘em and feel happy!

Protein is made up of amino acids. One specific amino acid, called tyrosine is known to stimulate production of neuropinephrine and epinephrine. These chemicals help boost alertness and energy levels. So choose from a host of protein rich foods such as fish, poultry and meat. Legumes, cheese, milk and cured too are super good if you want to feel better.

Carbohydrates stimulate the production of the feel –good hormone, serotonin. Research has shown that those on a diet tend to get depressed, a week or two down the line. About the time their serotonin levels dip, owing decreased carbohydrate intake. The next time you’re feeling low, turn to some healthy carbs: wholewheat bread, rice,cereal, rotis, parathas and apple. You’ll feel an instant lift.

Despite the bad reputation it has earned, a little caffeine can be an effective antidepression. Additionally, it remains effective without having to increase its dosage daily. There is evidance to support that a cup or two of coffee/tea a day is safe to drink. Remember, too much caffeine can make you nervous, irritable and oversensitive, bring on headaches, and also lead to an addiction.

Eating anything that tastes good boosts endorphin production, the happiness chemical that triggers that same kind of reaction as opiate drugs. So eat what you like for a legal high!

One nutrient that many of us could be lacking is a B-complex vitamin called choline. Choline is concerntrated in high cholestrol foods like egg yolk and liver. A lack of this nutrient can cause impairment of memory and concentration , leading to irriability. So eat that yellow in the egg (that you so like) without any guilt to reduce irriability and feel refreshed .

A deficiency in folic acid has been linked to depression. This deficiency leads to a decrease in serotonin levels. If you’re feeling low, squeeze out a glass of orange juice or indulge in some palak paneer, because spinach and oranges have folic acid in plenty.

Research attributes bad moods to a lack of selenium, a trace mineral. People suffering  from a lack of selenium have been shown to be more anxious, irritable, hostile and depressed in comparison to those who have healthy selenium levels. Taking in adequate amounts of this mineral can correct the deficiency, stabilize your mood and even better it further. You can get your dose of selenium every day from tuna, Whole – grain cereals, swordfish and sunflower seeds.