Christmas holidays are fast approaching, now is the time to stock up on healthy and energising food.
Research shows that there are links between how you feel and the food you eat. This research shows that your diet can ultimately change your brain chemistry affecting your moods and your energy levels.
Foods that help keep your blood sugar levels stable and balanced will also support your moods stable and help keep them balanced. These foods trigger feel good chemicals in the brain.
Carbs
Carbohydrates may be the enemy of any current diet craze. But when eaten in sensible amounts, they can boost energy and mood. This is because they raise the level of serotonin (happy neurotransmitter) and are the body’s preferred source of fuel. The carbohydrates that do this are not the white and refined pastas and breads, but rather the whole wheat produce such as whole wheat bread, brown rice, and whole grain bread. When these foods are consumed, you blood sugar levels remain stable.
Almonds, Cashews, Brazil Nuts & Hazelnuts
Almonds, cashews and brazil nuts have all got one thing in common, not only are they high in protein and omega 3 fatty acids, but they are also particularly high in magnesium. This important mineral plays a major role in the conversion of sugar to energy.
Brazil Nuts are a great source of selenium. Some evidence suggests that selenium is important for better moods.
Meat
Meat and poultry are rich sources of the amino acid, tyronsine and Vitamin B12. Tyrosine can help you feel more alert and focused as it a cofactor of two brain chemicals, dopamine and norepinephrine. Vitamin B12 can help insomnia and depression.
Fibre
Fibre can help you feel energised all day by a slow release of sugar which keeps the blood sugar levels stable. Beans, fruit, vegetables and whole grains will give you your supply of fibre.
Omega 3
Omega 3’s are known as brain food. Fatty fish, flax seeds are both great supplies of fatty acids.
Exercise releases the happy hormones known as endorphins. It also boosts your energy. So maybe try doing some even you're on Holiday break, just to keep those juices pumping.
Originally published on Dec 05, 2014
