Diet, Exercise & Your Mood

Everyone has those days when you feel down, irritated, frustrated or grumpy.  I know I do!  Although it can be oh so tempting to lay in bed all day and eat a dozen cookies, this is when it may be more important than ever to keep up with your exercise and nutrition as they both can affect your mood.  

Get moving!  Exercise creates endorphins and endorphins make you happy!  These chemicals go to your brain and give you that "runner's high" that you may have heard of or even experienced yourself. Even better, exercise outside.  Research by Richard Ryan and colleagues shows that being in nature significantly increases our sense of vitality.  Go for a walk or run, ride your bike, play outside with your kids, take an exercise class, have a dance party - whatever you like to do.  It's tough getting started but remember how good you will feel after being active.

Watch what you are eating and drinking.  Certain vitamins and nutrients can affect your mood.  Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish), Magnesium (found in some nuts and seeds) and turmeric have all been shown to reduce depression. Also Legumes (like lentils, chickpeas and beans) contain high levels of folate and zinc, both of which have been used as effective supplements for depression. These are just a few examples, check out this list for more information.  

Bottom line, staying active and eating right are not only good for your physical health but can also help your emotional health.