-10% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER WITH THE CODE WELCOME ! DELIVERY 48/72h IN UK & EU, FREE FROM €69.

Influence of diet on our mood

Written by: Reine Elie

|

Influence of diet on our mood

Listen to this article:

In this article, we'll explore the profound impact our diet has on our mood. We'll start by looking at how food interacts with our neurotransmitters, before diving into the fascinating world of emotional eating . Next, we'll highlight nutrients essential for mental health and discuss the psychological consequences of an unhealthy diet. Finally, we will share practical tips for managing stress through a better diet.

Foods and neurotransmitters

Have you ever considered the connection between what you eat and how you feel? As human beings, we tend to overlook the impact of our food choices on our state of mind.

Food plays a crucial role in the creation of neurotransmitters – those brain chemicals that govern our mood . On the one hand, amino acids such as tryptophan present in eggs, cheese or turkey are necessary to produce serotonin, often called the "happiness hormone". Certain complex carbohydrates such as those found in legumes or whole grains can also increase its production. Furthermore, vitamins like those of the B group promote the production of dopamine and norepinephrine influencing our energy levels and our attention. These vitamins are found in large quantities in different foods such as oily fish or spinach. A balanced diet is therefore at the heart of better physical but also mental well-being. It's interesting how our meal can positively affect our daily mood.

Influence of diet on our mood

Understanding emotional eating

The impact of a diet rich in carbohydrates

carbohydrates determine our mood. In fact, they stimulate serotonin, a neurotransmitter regulating well-being and calming. Thus, nourishing your body with complex carbohydrates such as whole grains or vegetables ensures a stable good mood.

  • Wholemeal pasta
  • Quinoa
  • Lenses
  • Oats
  • No sugar added popcorn
alimentation riche en glucides

Sugar and emotions: a complex link

There is no evidence that sugar is always bad for our emotional well-being. It can positively affect our moods by stimulating dopamine, the hormone of pleasure and motivation. This influence is often temporary and excessive consumption can cause mood fluctuations.

The impact of a diet rich in proteins and fatty acids

Certain proteins - present in fish or eggs - as well as certain essential fatty acids - contained in fish oil or nuts - can influence our morale. They contribute to the synthesis of neurotransmitters that control our emotions. It is clear that our diet does indeed have a direct influence on our mood. This is why current trends in dietetics favor a balanced and varied diet, rich in nutrients beneficial for the brain and emotional balance.

Key nutrients for good mental health

The virtues of B vitamins

Known for their vital role in the functioning of our brain, B vitamins promote good mental health. They actively contribute to the synthesis of neurotransmitters, essential to the balance of our mood. However, a lack of vitamin B can lead to depression.

The impact of Omega-3 on mood

Necessary for the proper functioning of the nervous system, Omega-3 acts as a barrier against depression. Indeed, they improve the state of mind and reduce anxiety. Let's not forget that these essential fatty acids are rich in antioxidants, key components for eliminating free radicals harmful to our body.

The psychological consequences of a poor diet

Influence of diet on our mood

Mood disorders and nutritional deficiency

Our diet plays a determining role in our state of mind. An unbalanced diet, characterized by a deficiency in essential vitamins and minerals, can cause mood disturbances such as depression or anxiety . For example, insufficient intake of magnesium – a crucial nutrient for brain function – has been linked to signs of depression in adults. It is therefore essential to opt for a varied and balanced diet in order to guarantee a positive state of mind.

Food additives: invisible enemies of the mind

Beyond nutritional deficiencies, certain products that we consume can also have harmful effects on our mental health. Food additives, common in processed foods, are often blamed. Synthetic colors, preservatives or sweeteners can cause various problems ranging from simple migraines to more serious disorders such as hyperactivity in children or chronic tension in adults.

Industrial food and multiple chemical intolerance syndrome

alimentation industrielle

However, it is necessary to mention multiple chemical intolerance syndrome. This disorder manifests itself by an increased sensitivity to different chemicals present in our daily environment, including those found in industrial foods. Symptoms are diverse and can include mood disturbances, fatigue or even cognitive difficulties. To prevent this risk, adopt an organic and natural diet, low in chemical substances.

Influence of food on our mood: Managing stress through a better diet

Managing stress, often seen as a huge obstacle, can be significantly improved thanks to a healthy and balanced diet. Persistent stress causes inflammation which can be reduced by ingesting certain nutrient-rich foods with anti-inflammatory properties.

  • Dark green vegetables: These are equipped with B vitamins which contribute to the regulation of the nervous system.
  • Berries: They are abundant in antioxidants, essential for fighting inflammation caused by stress.
  • Salmon: A rich source of omega 3, it stimulates the production of “good” chemicals in the brain such as serotonin.
  • Chia seeds: These small seeds contain tryptophan which promotes the production of serotonin and melatonin, hormones responsible for well-being and sleep respectively.
gestion du stress par une meilleure diete

In conclusion, it is essential to adopt a global approach to controlling your stress. This involves not only a good diet but also techniques such as meditation and regular exercise. An improved diet will not solve all your problems, but it can be a first step towards a more peaceful and balanced existence.

To find out more about managing stress and anxiety, do not hesitate to consult our information page: Stress and anxiety, our advice for preventing them .

More articles on the same theme:

STAY UP TO DATE

Submit your email to get updates on products and special promotions.