Monday, July 19, 2010

Food right, Mood right

Wonder why you keep craving for that bar of chocolate when you feel low? Ever wondered why simple dal and rice soothes your nerves on a day you’re feeling cranked up?
Here’s why different foods affect our moods in different ways. We tell what to have and what to avoid when you feel… 

Stressed

The deadline’s nearing and you are not done putting all the slides together. You seem to be hitting dead ends no matter what you do.

“Just take a deep breath and munch on some pumpkin seeds, flax seeds or walnuts,” advises nutritionist Naini Setalvad. Foods rich in omega 3 helps our body restore magnesium which increases the body’s ability to cope with stress, she adds.

“On a particularly stressful day, plan grilled fish for dinner. It will help in soothing your nerves,” says Sarita Gaikwad, dietician at Talwalkars.

Anxious

Feeling the jitters as you get closer to the big interview or a date? “Simply sip on some lime water or dig into your favourite dish of potatoes,” Setalvad says.

These are rich in B complex and vitamin C that helps you relax. “However, try to avoid fried food or caffeine,” she warns as they can only alleviate your anxiety.

“Protein rich foods like grilled chicken or grilled paneer can also help you get over jittery nerves,” says Gaikwad. Protein helps your body to create dopamine, which makes you alert she explains.

Sad

Are you feeling the blues lately? “Just grab a piece of dark chocolate,” Gaikwad says. It will instantly boost your energy levels and leave you feeling perkier.

Naini says, “Foods rich in magnesium like bananas and apricots will help too.” Folic acid in the form of spinach or a cup orange juice will lift your moods too.

Angry

To keep your temper under control, Gaikwad says, “consume foods that have cooling properties like cucumber or a cup of yogurt.” A glass of chilled milk should do the trick too, she says.

She also says, one should stay away from aerated drinks and alcohol as they will aggravate the emotion. Now you don’t want that- do you?

Keep in mind this food guide and control your moods better!

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