Relationship between Diet and Mood

There is a total relationship between food and mood, since we are what we eat . If we are well nourished, without any imbalance or lack of any nutrient, and logically, without personal problems, we will be very well emotionally. We must bear in mind that diets can cause mood swings, for example, a low- calorie or high-protein diet can cause mood disorders due to lack of nutrients that are not ingested. In this sense, the Mediterranean diet, which is what we have, is perfect and maintains a good mood.

Any food that provides us with an adequate level of nutrients is a good precursor to a good mood, not just pasta (as is often thought). If we eat something that we really like, it will give us a good mood and we can take anything, as long as we do it in a balanced way.

Influence of food on emotional state:

Chocolate is said to be a good antidepressant because of the amount of an amino acid it contains, called tryptophan. Two ounces of pure dark chocolate 70% cocoa a day help prevent cardiovascular risk . Although this quality is not only found in chocolate, there are other similar foods such as nuts . For example: three walnuts a day also decrease cardiovascular risk.

Cherries also have an antidepressant effect, which help relieve depression because they are precursors, they contain anthocyanins(Anthocyanins are colored water-soluble pigments belonging to the phenolic group. The pigments are in glycosylated forms. Anthocyanins responsible for the colors, red, purple, and blue, are in fruits and vegetables. Berries, currants, grapes, and some tropical fruits have high anthocyanins content.). But not only cherries, but also blueberries and pomegranates, among others.

For anxiety, although there is a belief that there are foods that help remedy it, there really is no specific food that calms us down. But it is true that chocolate, for example, is like a prize for our brain, due to its organoleptic capacity(Organoleptic properties are the aspects of food, water or other substances that create an individual experience via the senses—including taste, sight, smell, and touch.). When eating chocolate, the bitter taste at the end is tryptophan, which is what benefits us and also "hooks" us.

In any case, from an emotional point of view, you should not eliminate any food, you should eat everything and eat as much variety as possible. Since it is necessary to have all the nutrients because that is what makes you healthy. Sometimes, you can have serotonin, but if you lack vitamin B, you will no longer be in good health and emotionally.