By Christy Estes, RD, LD In the mood for food? Studies show that food may affect people's moods even more than we realize. Certain foods are able to stir memories — smells of cookies baking might remind you of Grandma's kitchen — while others simply stir the appetite. What exactly does happen when food goes to your head?
According to author Jane Eldershaw, "The six stages of coping are anger, denial, bargaining, chocolate, acceptance, and hope." While she may just be having a little fun in her book Mood Food: Brighten, Heal and Elevate Your State of Mind, scientifically, she has a point. Chocolate belongs to a group of foods said to be psychoactive.
Psycho Foods?!
Psychoactive foods have an influence on feelings. This is because psychoactive foods affect neurotransmitters, which are the chemical messengers sent by the brain and nervous system to exert control over cells and tissues. For example, serotonin is a neurotransmitter responsible for feelings of optimism, relaxation, and a sense of well-being. Snacks or meals rich in complex carbohydrates help keep up a constant flow of serotonin. When you want to mellow out, enjoy whole-grain breads and cereals, fresh fruits, and vegetables.
Protein affects dopamine and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters responsible for alertness, excitement, and mental sharpness. If you're feeling sluggish, you might try eating protein-rich foods such as meat, fish, poultry, cheese, nut butters, or nuts.
The jury is still out over how much effect food can have on your mood. If you want to conduct your own experiment, try a Creamy Milk Chocolate Ensure® Shake. Is it an amazing psychoactive pick-me-up, or simply delicious? You be the judge.
The Power of Chocolate
Chocolate contains a host of compounds said to be mood altering.
- Phenylethylamine: A mood lifter
- Theobromine: A stimulant like caffeine but weaker. Chocolate contains much more theobromine than caffeine.
- Caffeine: A stimulant associated with alertness, anxiety, and restlessness
- Anandamide: The "bliss" molecule, which produces feelings of joy
- Sugar: Raises serotonin levels connected with a sense of well-being