The Way to a Good Mood is Through the Stomach

Ever stopped to think about the actual comfort derived from comfort food? If you have relished the jolt of energy from a steaming cup of coffee; the surge of euphoria compliments of a chocolate croissant; or the sense of calm following a hearty pasta meal; if you have been uplifted, relaxed, and energized by food... then you know: Food can and does comfort.

It seems that our digestive system has a mind of its own. Literally. It is called the enteric nervous system and it produces a multitude of chemicals that create our moods. These chemicals are called neurotransmitters. Three very important neurotransmitters are:

Serotonin: It stabilizes our moods and promotes drowsiness and sleep.
Catecholamines: These are dopamine, epinephrine (aka adrenaline), and nor-epinephrine. These neurotransmitters have an energizing effect on our state of mind: they promote alertness and focus.
Endorphins: These opiate-like chemicals are known as the body's natural painkillers. They have an analgesic effect and promote a state of euphoria.

Neurotransmitters have the power to excite and sedate us, shift our emotional states, enhance our mental capabilities, and change our minds. What is more, neurotransmitters are produced directly from food components. For example, foods high in carbs increase the production of serotonin, which in turn produces a calming, relaxing effect. (Now you know that you get those carb cravings when there is a drop in the levels of serotonin). On the other hand, foods with high protein content boost the production of dopamine and nor-epinephrine, two neurotransmitters responsible for feelings of mental acuity, focus, and alertness. Fatty foods help release endorphins and cheer you up. Chocolate (ah! chocolate...) is the ultimate comfort food as it promotes the release of both serotonin (through its sugar content) and endorphins (through its fat content), not to mention the mild stimulant effect of the caffeine in the cocoa.

Food has power over us. Big time. The challenge is for us to acknowledge and control this power so that food can help make us both happier and healthier. Remember: The food-mood reaction is a short-term one. A candy bar will boost our energy only for so long... and then will leave us craving for more. And then some more. Plus the extra pounds. But if we are willing to commit to a long-term diet plan, then we can use food to promote and maintain both our physical and emotional well-being.

If it is energy you are looking for, then opt for a high-protein meal. Lean meats, fat-free dairy products, eggs, fish, and beans are foods rich in protein. Protein is best for breakfast: You will find that it pays off to have sugar-free cereal and low- or no-fat milk rather than a donut. At the end of a tiring day, foods high in slow-burning carbs (e.g. unrefined whole-grains) and low in protein and fat will help you relax. Opt for whole-grain pasta, peas and potatoes, or brown rice and mushrooms. And there is a lot to be said for the calming effect of the good old warm milk and cookie at bedtime.