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Ever wondered if food was to blame for your feelings?

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It has been noted for some time now, that slightly underfed populations tend to live longer. In fact, protein calorie wasting is often seen as compensating for illness. The natural state of the human body appears at its most efficient in a slightly underfed state--calorie utilization improves, adrenaline levels are higher and immunity is enhanced as the body gears up to seek food.

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Also, the effects of diet on mood and behavior have been undeniable for a while now, even in scholastic circles. A Harvard paper published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research 1982-1983 Volume 17 Issue 2 reported findings of experimental research conducted in conjunction with US Army R&D Laboratories.

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The short of their findings showed that the effects of meal composition on mood varied with gender: while carbohydrates made women feel sleepy, men reported feeling greater calmness after a carbohydrate more than a protein meal. They also showed that older subjects (above the age of 40) responded differently at different mealtimes: proteins for breakfast made them feel more edgy and tense than carbohydrates, but carbohydrates at lunch resulted in a marked reduction of concentration, and naturally, performance.

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Fascinating, and while we dont advise that anyone religiously plot their meals for mood management, here are some simple tips that may help you feel better.

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Scattered-brain

If you find yourself chronically distracted and unable to focus, try a beef patty, chicken breast, or some cheese. Protein, apart from being a significant nutrient, encourages bodily production of norepinephrine and dopamine--neurotransmitters that trigger feelings of alertness and energy. Insufficient protein can conversely produce feelings of lethargy and irritability.

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Sad face

Everyone knows a little chocolate can fix anything, because it's true. Chocolates contain phenylethylamine which releases endorphins, and fat and sugar which release both serotonins and endorphins to produce a feeling of well-being or euphoria. Depressed? Call Hersheys.

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Bi-polar

You're laughing one moment and crying the next, or you go from excited to agitated in the blink of an eye. Your mood swings could be gone if you simply ingest enough water. Dehydration is a big deal, and can play a big role in our emotional stability. Dehydration is also a common cause of headaches; we recommend water--most easily guzzled at room temperature.

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High-strung

Stress, anxiety, nervousness... Unwelcome feelings of worry can be put down with some low-fat dairy or a serving of nuts. Both are rich in calcium, which is good for reducing anxiety, and will calm you down visibly.

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Pissed off

Mad at somebody? Instead of fuming or retaliating, try eating some grapes, or a grapefruit, or carrots. High sources of pectin, a soluble fiber that reduces cholesterol, these fruits also foster magnanimity. Pectin essentially reverses the effects of rage by returning heart rate, adrenaline and blood pressure levels to normal.

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Now eat to be happy!