How does food impact out mood?

Food intake and eating patterns will affect how someone feels.
Mood and feelings can affect someone’s food intake & eating.

When we do not give the brain enough food, or the right kind of foods, we may:

  • Have difficulty concentrating
  • Develop mood swings
  • Become more depressed or anxious
  • Be irritable, sometimes angry and snappy
  • Have trouble thinking, our thoughts can slow, or may go around in circles becoming obsessed with food or other tasks
  • Feel dizzy
  • Feel very tired and run down
Food and Mood

If our brain is not receiving enough nutrients, some functions can become compromised, or less efficient.

Production of serotonin in the brain can be affected by protein and carbohydrate intake. Omega-3 fatty acids, folate, magnesium and zinc help the brains nervous system to communicate effectively, regenerate, and repair. Maintain healthy gut microbiome by consuming foods that create an optimal environment for microbes to thrive.Mood can also affect our food intake. Often people find it hard to eat when their mood is low, while others comfort eat, over-eat or binge as an emotional response. Food is ingrained in our culture, social lives and relationships, so developing confidence and a good relationship with food confidence can help us maintain those social connections.
Learn more about how to optimise your food intake to boost your mood and make the most of everyday living, by booking a consultation with our dietitians.